Dutchover, who had turned 21 the day prior, celebrated his birthday weekend with his fifth win of the year and fourth straight knockout victory.

The West Texas-based Dutchover used his patience in the first round to learn the appropriate angles against Tamayo, who had previously been in the ring against first class talent such as Jhonatan Romero, Oscar Valdez, Joseph Diaz and Jesus Cuellar.

In the third, Dutchover unlocked his power with a left hook to the body that stunned and forced Tamayo to take a knee. After Tamayo beat the count, Dutchover attacked and landed a right onto the midsection, which dropped Tamayo once again.

Referee Lou Moret immediately waived off the fight at the 2:15 mark.

“I feel like I’m growing into a better fighter with each and every fight,” said Dutchover, who is promoted by industry veterans Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. “I took my time in the first round, but then my corner advised me to start letting my hands go and I got the knockout win. I’m looking forward to another great year in 2019.”

Yunusov, who competed in the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Olympics for his native country Tajikistan, dominated the action, and finally broke Salinas down in the 7th frame.

With the win, Yunusov, who now resides in Philadelphia has a record of 6-0 with three knockouts.

Salinas of Las Cruces, New Mexico falls to 10-4-1.

“We are thrilled with Anvar’s performance. Salinas had fought and defeated some credible opponents, and Anvar fought very well, and we are excited for what 2019 will hold for him,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions.

In the co-feature, debuting Jeffrey Torres thrilled his hometown fans with a four-round unanimous decision over Steven Lopez in a bantamweight contest.

Live from the American Bank Center, tickets on sale Wednesday, Nov. 14
ESPN+ stream to begin at 10 p.m. ET

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (Nov. 13, 2018) – It was one of the best fights of 2017. WBO super middleweight world champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez had Jesse “Hollywood” Hart down and nearly out in the second round, only for Hart to come back with a furious late-rounds rally. Ramirez ultimately prevailed via unanimous decision that September evening in Tucson, Ariz., but Hart, the Philadelphia native with the legendary last name, had rematch on his mind immediately after the decision was rendered.

His wish has finally come true.Ramirez will make the fifth defense of his world title against Hart, Friday, Dec. 14 at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. Ramirez-Hart 2 and a soon-to-be announced co-feature will stream live and exclusively at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN+ in the United States— the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN. The entire undercard will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zapari Boxing Promotions, tickets to the Ramirez-Hart 2 world championship event will go on sale Wednesday, Nov. 14 at 10 a.m. CST. Priced at $100, $65, $45, and $30, tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com, at the American Bank Center Box Office, Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST, or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000.“This will be a good fight. I feel better prepared than the first time and even more convinced that I will finish him,” Ramirez said. “I’ve always said that I wanted to be the king of the division. I’ve been waiting for unification fights, and I’m still patient. I’m at my best, and against Hart, I want to show why I’m the best.”“I’m very grateful and humbled for this opportunity,” Hart said. “I just want to go out there and perform to the best of my ability. I have nothing derogatory to say about Gilberto Ramirez. At this point, I just want to go out there and perform.”Ramirez (38-0, 25 KOs), the first Mexican-born super middleweight champion, will be defending the title he won from Arthur Abraham via shutout decision on April 9, 2016. A hand injury put Ramirez on the shelf until April 22, 2017, but he didn’t miss a beat, dominating Max Bursak en route to a unanimous decision victory. In his most recent outing, June 30 in Oklahoma City, Ramirez used his boxing skills to win a unanimous decision against Alexis Angulo. Ramirez, from Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, is a nine-year pro who is no stranger to Corpus Christi. He headlined a show at the American Bank Center on Feb. 3, knocking out the previously unbeaten Habib Ahmed in the sixth round to retain his title.Hart (25-1, 21 KOs), the WBO No. 1 contender, is a former amateur standout, winning the 2011 National Golden Gloves and U.S. National championships at 165 pounds. A 2012 U.S. Olympic alternate, Hart turned pro in 2012 and won his first 22 bouts prior to challenging Ramirez. Hart last fought as the ESPN co-feature Aug. 18 in Atlantic City, battering Mike Gavronski en route to a third-round stoppage. After more than a year of calling out Ramirez for a return match, Hart has his shot at redemption. A proud native of Philadelphia, Hart is the son of Eugene “Cyclone” Hart, a feared middleweight contender in the 1970s who never received a world title shot. With Eugene Hart in his corner as head trainer, Jesse Hart will seek to bring a world title home to the City of Brotherly Love.For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Hooker Stops Saucedo in 7

Retains 140-Pound Title

Mean Machine KOs Roberto Arriaza in 3 in Welterweight Co-Feature

(Photo Credit: Mikey Williams / Top Rank)

OKLAHOMA CITY (Nov. 16, 2018) — The fairytale ending wasn’t meant to be. Oklahoma City native Alex Saucedo fell short in his first world title challenge, as Maurice Hooker defended his WBO junior welterweight title against Saucedo via 7th-round TKO In front of 4,102 fans at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City.

“Alex is a great fighter. He came to fight, and I came to fight, and I went right at him,” Hooker said. “I knew the first couple of rounds would be tough, but eventually it would be my time to take over.”Said Saucedo: “He’s a champion for a reason. Now, I am going to rest, enjoy my family, and come back stronger. I gave it my very best in the ring.”

Saucedo (28-1, 18 KOs) landed the first major blow of the night, knocking Hooker down with a right hand in the second round, causing blood to gush from his nose. Hooker responded with a late flurry to end the round. The fight entered a familiar pattern, as Saucedo marched forward and Hooker (25-0-3, 17 KOs) landed flush counter punches.

Eventually, Hooker took over, as cuts over Saucedo’s left eye opened up. Hooker, using precision punching, knocked Saucedo down with a right hand in the seventh. The end came soon after, and Hooker, a native of Dallas, Texas, left Oklahoma with his world title.

Mean Machine Blows Out Arriaza

Egidijus “The Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas wanted to show the world that he deserves a crack at a welterweight world title. The statement was emphatic, as Kavaliauskas blew out the previously unbeaten Roberto Arriaza (17-1, 13 KOs) in three rounds to retain the NABF title and pick up the WBO Inter-Continental Belt.

Kavaliauskas (21-0, 17 KOs) made no secret that the man he wants to face next is WBO welterweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford, who was seated ringside.

“I want to fight the best in the welterweight division, and the best guy right now is Terence Crawford,” Kavaliauskas said. “I am ready for that fight next.”

Said Arriaza: “I know I had him in trouble. I was the one who was dominating and was in control of the fight. I’m sure that I was going to finish him within six rounds, but he surprised me with a punch behind the ear and then he connected me while I was on the canvas.”

Seldin said: “It felt good to be back in the ring, injury-free this time. I was brought to Oklahoma City for one reason, and that is to fight the winner of the main event. And that is what I want next.”

2016 U.S. Olympian Antonio Vargas fights for 1st title against Jesus Perez in Kissimmee, Florida

NEW YORK (November 16, 2018) –2016 United States Olympian, and undefeated bantamweight Antonio Vargas (8-0, 3 KOs) returns to the ring when he fights Jorge Perez in an eight-round bout at the Civic Center Kissimmee, Florida.

The bout will be the 1st scheduled eight-round bout for Vargas, and it will be for the Jr. NABF Bantamweight title.

Vargas of Kissimmee, will be fighting for his 1st title and he will be doing it in front of his hometown fans. This will be the for 3rd time this year that Vargas will be fighting in Kissimmee.

Vargas is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over Felipe Rivas on September 28th in Puerto Rico.

‘m very excited to fight for my first professional title. To top it all off, I get to do it in front of my family and friends,” said Vargas.

“My community has always been very supportive of me since my amateur days and, they continue to support me as many of them make the trip to my fights when I fight here in Florida. I trained harder than I ever train and you will see the best of Antonio Vargas tonight!”

Said Split-T Management’s David McWater, “Nobody is more deserving than Antonio Vargas. Along with being a great talent, he is such as great kid. This will be the first of many professional titles for Antonio!”

Alex Saucedo: “I’m Going to Take That Belt!”

Maurice Hooker to defend WBO 140-pound title against Saucedo LIVE on Friday at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma CityMidnight ET/9 p.m. PST on ESPN

The hometown kid, Alex Saucedo, is hoping to become only the second Oklahoma City product (following Sean O’Grady, who is also co-promoting this event) to taste world championship glory.

Saucedo and Hooker faced off for the first time at Wednesday’s press conference, a precursor to the in-ring hostilities that will occur Friday evening at the Chesapeake Energy Arena, home of the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder.

Saucedo (28-0, 18 KOs) and Hooker (24-0-3, 16 KOs) sparred many rounds years ago in Dallas, but both acknowledged those sessions would have little bearing on Friday’s outcome. They both promised an action fight, a fitting installment for this “border war.”

Hooker-Saucedo will headline a special one-fight telecast on ESPN at midnight ET. In the co-feature, which headlines the ESPN+ stream (6:30 p.m ET), undefeated welterweight puncher Egidijus Kavaliauskas (20-0, 16 KOs) will fight Roberto Arriaza (17-0, 13 KOs) in a showdown with potential world title implications.

Maurice Hooker

On being the road fighter

“l’ll fight anywhere. Outside your house, in front of your house, in the ring, on the sidewalk. I don’t care where I fight as long as I fight. I’m a fighter. I love to fight. I can outbox him. I can fight you on the inside. Come Friday, we’re going to see a good fight.”

On sparring with Alex

“We both were young back then. We got better. I got better. He’s better. I just got a little more better than him. It’s going to be a good fight come Friday. I’m here in Oklahoma. I don’t care where I fight. It’s on.”

Alex Saucedo

“I grew up just around the corner I always had the dream to bring championship fights back to Oklahoma, and now its here. I’m not going to let this opportunity go. I’m ready. We prepared ourselves in Big Bear for a very good fight. Like I’ve said, I’m ready for anything Maurice brings that night. I’m going to take that belt from him.”

On his June victory against Lenny Zappavigna

“It was a very tough fight. Everyone enjoyed it. I’m glad we’re here at this fight now. That fight got me to this point. Like I said, I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Egidijus Kavaliauskas

“Every fight for me is a step toward my dream. My dream is to become a world champion, so every fight for me, I’m bringing 100 percent of me because it’s a step. A big step. This fight is the same.”

“Big respect to Roberto. He’s a very good fighter. He and I have a similar style, so I know it will be a great fight.”

Roberto Arriaza

“I think this is a great opportunity. This is the opportunity of my life. I want to thank everyone involved for giving me this opportunity. I’ve been working hard for this.”

“I know he’s a great fighter. I have a lot of respect for him. Like always, I have a lot of faith, and in the name of God, I’m going to be victorious once again.”

Bob Arum

“It’s great to be back in Oklahoma City. It’s our second time here this year. {Sean O’Grady} is the pride of Oklahoma City. I never promoted Sean here, but he won the title from Hilmer Kenty of the Kronk group in Atlantic City, the {WBA} lightweight championship.”

Sean O’Grady

“I’ve kept my eye on Alex Saucedo since he was about 12 years old. And I can tell you right now, the kid can fight. He grew up in the amateurs. He was a great little fighter, even as a young man. At 12, 13, 14 years old, he was a great little fighter.”

“I like Maurice Hooker. He too has a great background in the sport of boxing. This is going to be a terrific matchup.”

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Roc Nation Sports and Matchroom Boxing USA, tickets for this world championship event are on sale now. Priced at $250, $150, $75, $50, and $35, tickets may be purchased at the Chesapeake Energy Arena box office, online at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

LIVE on Friday at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City and broadcast on ESPN at midnight ETUndercard broadcast begins at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN+

WBO challenger Alex Saucedo

(Photo Credit: Stacey Verbeek)

OKLAHOMA CITY (Nov. 12, 2018) – The “Red River Rivalry” — the pugilistic version — has kicked off. WBO junior welterweight champion Maurice Hooker, from Dallas, Texas, will defend his world title Friday evening against Oklahoma City native Alex Saucedo at the Chesapeake Energy Arena, home of the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder.

“This is his first time in a world title fight, so he’s nervous. It’s his first big fight at home. A championship. I know he’s nervous.”

“I’ll tell you this. Don’t blink, because I’m coming.”

“I’m feeling good, feeling confident in myself. I’m ready to fight.”

Alex Saucedo

“Maurice Hooker is a champion for a reason. He’s a great fighter with a good reach and power in both of his hands. We have a tough fight on our hands, but we will be ready for anything that he brings to the table.”

“I’m going to show boxing fans the real me on Nov. 16. He can say what he wants about me getting hit a lot, but I don’t have any draws on my record. He says I’ve been hit a lot, but if you have three draws on your record, that means you’re not that hard to hit.”

“I am a different fighter than Terry Flanagan, who he won the title from. As always, I’m going to give it my all in the ring. I just want to beat him up and become the new WBO junior welterweight champion of the world.”

“Hooker’s fight with Flanagan. All I have to say is I’m a different fighter than Flanagan. On Friday, he will see the type of fighter I am.”

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Roc Nation Sports and Matchroom Boxing USA, tickets for this world championship event are on sale now. Priced at $250, $150, $75, $50, and $35, tickets may be purchased at the Chesapeake Energy Arena box office, online at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

Vasiliy Lomachenko and Jose Pedraza ready to square off in New York City for the unified Lightweight title

By Tamera Delafave

On Saturday, December 8th, in the heart of the Christmas Season, all eleven floors at Macy’s Department Store located at Herald Square in New York City, will be adorned with a variety of gifts, colorful tapestries, and bright decorations. Merriment, shopping, and jolly good cheer will abound in the city as if capsulized in a holiday snow globe.

While this is going on, about a block away at the Hulu Theatre at Madison Square Garden, there will be no jollies, there will be no shopping, and there will be no presents. Instead, in its place will be volleys of swift jabs, right crosses, and left hooks, with the only good cheer coming from the enthusiastic crowd assembled to watch one of the biggest lightweight battles in years. For on this date, at this time, in the midst of thousands of toasts to one’s good health, two of boxing best, Vasiliy Lomachenko and Jose Pedraza, will bravely engage in an anxiously awaited unification bout for the 135 pound title.

Following the Heisman Trophy presentation on ESPN, the Top Rank fight card is all set to capture not only the preceding sports audience, but also the imagination and viewership of boxing fans around the globe.

Already a household name, Vasiliy Lomachenko (11-1, 9 KO’s), who hails from the Ukraine, but now resides in Oxnard, California, is a former two-time Olympic gold medalist and three-time world boxing champion, who currently holds the WBA lightweight title. Although he will be squaring off against the tough WBO lightweight king Jose Pedraza, he, nevertheless, looks to expand his trophy cabinet by adding Pedraza’s WBO belt to one of the shelves.

Pedraza, of Puerto Rico, He is far from an easy mark. Besides being the present WBO lightweight champ, he was also a former IBF junior lightweight champ, and sports an impressive ledger of 25-1 (12 KO’s). Pedraza won the WBO title by decisioning Raymundo Beltran this past August where he knocked the champion Beltran down in the eleventh round to seal the deal.

As their records indicate, both fighters are knockout punchers who make no bones about the fact they each possess dynamite in their fists.

“I am ready to fight an excellent opponent like Jose Pedraza,” said Lomachenko. My goal has always been to unify the titles, and Pedraza is standing in my way.”

This bout also represents Lomachenko’s fourth time fighting in either the big room in Madison Square Garden or at its Hulu Theatre. “There is something special about fighting in New York City and Madison Square Garden,” revealed Lomachenko who is also arguably considered the most talented amateur boxing in history with a posted record of 396-1. “The fans in New York City are true boxing fans, and I can’t wait to put on another spectacular performance for them.”

With a reach advantage of 5 ½ inches, Pedraza is just as confident as Lomachenko is. “I am grateful to have this opportunity since I didn’t get a chance to unify titles when I was champion in the junior lightweight division,” said Pedraza. “In this division, I will achieve my goal, and I will do it against one of the best boxers in the world. There will be a surprise on December 8th.”

The winner of this bout will have two of the four major boxing titles in the lightweight division, with Mikey Garcia holding the two other belts, namely the WBC and IBF titles. There has already been great interest in Lomachenko fighting Garcia, but first the Ukraine superstar has to first get past Pedraza who has no intention of leaving the bout a loser.

Branden Pizarro And Gadwin Rosa To Compete For NBA Title Belts As Part Of Non-Televised Undercard Of ShoBox The New Generation Friday, November 16 At The 2300 Arena In Philadelphia

Pizarro Battles Jerome Rodriguez; Rosa Takes On Veteran German Meraz

PHILADELPHIA — November 7, 2018 — Two members of the Hard Hitting Promotions stable will fight for NBA title belts on the non-televised undercard of a ShoBox: The New Generation event on Friday, November 16 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Junior welterweight Branden Pizarro will take on Jerome Rodriguez in an eight-round bout for the NBA Intercontinental title, while undefeated super featherweight Gadwin Rosa faces German Meraz in a six-round bout for the NBA Intercontinental title.

Those bouts will precede a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live on SHOWTIME® (9:35 p.m. ET/PT) that will feature an all-Philly showdown between undefeated Jaron Ennis and veteran Raymond Serrano. In the televised co-feature, Hard Hitting Promotions’ Samuel Teah will face Kenneth Sims Jr. in a junior welterweight bout. Opening the telecast will be a super bantamweight matchup between Arnold Khegai and Jorge Diaz.

“The NBA belt is a great springboard title, and to have two of our young prospects fight for titles on this great card is terrific for them,” said Manny Rivera of Hard Hitting Promotions. “The NBA has a long history of champions which include Roy Jones and Hector Camacho, so we definitely think that this will be the first of many titles for Branden and Gadwin.”

Pizarro, of Philadelphia, has a record of 12-1 with six knockouts, and the 19-year-old keeps improving with each fight. Rodriguez (7-10-3, 2 KOs), of Allentown, Penn., is battle tested and has wins over two undefeated fighters, including world-ranked Avery Sparrow.

Rosa ,of Ocala, Fla., is 8-0 with seven knockouts. The unbeaten super featherweight will look to continue his knockout prowess as he fights the 113-fight veteran German Meraz, who has faced numerous top prospects and contenders. For Rosa, this fight will be a solid indicator of where the talented youngster stands as he climbs the 130-pound ladder.

Also seeing action against opponents to be named will be super bantamweight Angel Pizarro, of Philadelphia, and light heavyweight David Stevens, of Reading, Penn., who will make his professional debut in a cruiserweight fight.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by Victory Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions, are priced $50, $75 and $125 and can be purchased at 2300arena.com and hardhittingpromotions.com.

Banner Promotions signs undefeated Lightweight Golden Garcia

PHILADELPHIA, PENN.(November 6, 2018)–Banner Promotions is proud to announce the signing of undefeated lightweight, Golden Garcia to a promotional contract.

Garcia, 30 years-old of Montreal, Canada, has a record of 11-0-1 with six-knockouts.

Garcia began boxing at the age of 12 when he walked in to a gym to get in shape.

“I got into a few scraps in the street, so it was nice to go to a place where fighting was allowed,” said Garcia.

Garcia had about 60 amateur bouts, where he competed at 130 pounds.

Garcia turned professional on June 28, 2014 with a 2nd round stoppage over Michael Gargouri in Quebec, Canada. He has fought all of his bouts in Canada, which included a win over Oscar Mejia (10-2-1).

In his last bout, Garcia stopped Adalberto Borquez on March 24th in Montreal.

Garcia is a pressure fighter, that throws a high volume of punches, and tries to overwhelm his opponents. Garcia prides himself for his endurance and he believes that the longer the fight goes, the better he is.

“This is a great opportunity for me to step up. I will get better chances to show off my skills, and being with Banner Promotions can help me get farther in my career then I could imagine,” said Garcia. “I am looking forward to this partnership, and together we will do big things.”

Said Garcia’s manager, former world champion, Otis Grant, “Golden has a lot of potential. He is a very hard worker. I have confidence in Artie Pelullo and Banner Promotions. I was his 1st world champion. This will open the door to sign more fighters with Banner. I have a lot of good fighters, and I am looking to send more to Artie.”

“I am happy to be working with my 1st world champion Otis Grant, and his brother Howard. They have a terrific eye for talent, and Golden will be the 1st of many fighters that we will be working together, to bring to world championships,” said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.

BRANDON ADAMSADVANCES TO FINALS OF THE CONTENDER WITH DECISION OVER ERIC WALKER ADAMS TO FACE SHANE MOSLEY JR. THIS FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE ON EPIX AT 10 PM ET

PHILADELPHIA / LOS ANGELES – November 6, 2018 – Brandon Adams won a majority decision over Eric Walker to advance to the final of The Contender on EPIX®.

Adams dropped Walker in round four with a hard right-left combination and came through the hard fought contest by scores of 49-45, 48-46 and 47-47.

Adams, 20-2 with 13 knockouts, will now advance to the finals, where he will take on Shane Mosley, Jr. (13-2, 8 KOs) at The Forum in Inglewood, California this Friday night live on EPIX at 10 PM ET / 7 PM PT.

“We are very proud of Brandon. We are excited to watch Brandon fight for The Contender title on Friday. He is a terrific fighter, and with a win, we can expect to see Brandon in big fights,” said Matthew Rowland, Vice-President of Banner Promotions.

The original Contender series ran for four seasons (2005-2009) and launched multiple fighters into contention for world titles, including title winners Sergio Mora, Cornelius Bundrage, Sakio Bika, and Sam Soliman.

Eric Van Wagenen serves as executive producer and showrunner of the revived franchise alongside Mark Burnett. The format is owned by MGM Television and Paramount Television.

ATLANTIC CITY (October 23, 2018)–Welterweight contender Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna takes on former world title challenger Mike Arnaoutis for the New Jersey State Welterweight Title in the eight-round main event for will headline a full night of action on Friday night,November 16th at The Bourbon Room inside The Showboat Hotelin Atlantic City.

The card is promoted by Rising Star Promotions.

LaManna of Millville, New Jersey has a record of 26-2-1 with nine knockouts.

The 26 year-old LaManna is a seven-year professional, who won his first 16 bouts.

LaManna is currently riding a six-fight unbeaten streak. He has wins over Kendall Mena (20-3), and in his last bout he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Matthew Strode (25-6) on August 18th in Atlantic City.

This will be LaManna’s 7th consecutive start in Atlantic City, and 20 bout overall on the boardwalk.

Arnaoutis of Atlantic City, New Jersey via Athens, Greece has a record of 26-11-2 with 13 knockouts.

Arnaoutis began his career in 2001 and was undefeated in his first 16 bouts, which included wins over Hector Saez (4-1), Former world title challenger Jesse Feliciano (12-2-2), Joaquin Gallardo (16-2-1), Roberto Santa Cruz (11-2), Jose Leo Moreno (12-0) & Marc Thompson (14-0). Arnaoutis fought to a disputed draw with future world champion Juan Urango.

Arnaoutis challenged for the WBO Junior Welterweight title against Ricardo Torres on November 18, 2006. Aranoutis lost a split decision that many ringside observers thought Arnaoutis had pulled out the victory.

In his bout, Arnaoutis lost to top prospect Jaron Ennis on June 1st in Atlantic City.

In the eight-round co-feature, Chris Thomas will defend the New Jersey State Middleweight Title against Eddie Edmond.

Thomas (10-0-1, 7 KOs) of Toms River, New Jersey won The New Jersey State Middleweight Title when scored a 3rd round stoppage over Darryl Bunting on June 1st.

The 20 year Thomas is a two-year professional, and is coming off a 2nd round knockout over 147-fight veteran Roberto Valenzuela on July 28th in Hampton, New Hampshire.

Edmond of Newark, New Jersey has a record of 4-5-2 with one knockout.

The 32 year-old is a 10-year professional is looking to get back in the win column after losing to Isiah Seldon on May 27th, 2016 in Atlantic City.

Also in an eight-round bout, Greg Jackson (8-7-1, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Juan Rodriguez Jr. (13-5, 3 KOs) of Union City, New Jersey in a welterweight rematch of a controversial bout that took place three years ago.

In that bout, most people who saw that bout had Jackson ahead at the time of a melee that happened in the crowd, and the bout was halted as there was not any ambulance onsite due to it being used to transport injured fans.

On November 16th, Jackson and Rodriguez will get it on again to settle the score.

In six-round bouts:

Miguel Cartagena (15-5-1, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a flyweight contest.

John Bauza (11-0, 5 KOs) of North Bergen, New Jersey takes on an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight bout.

Isiah Hart (1-0, 1 KO) of Atlantic City takes on Leon DeShields of Philadelphia in a middleweight bout

Joel De La Paz (8-1, 4 KOs) of Atlantic City takes on an opponent to be named in a super middleweight fight.

Ryan Wilczak (7-0, 3 KOs) of Scranton, PA will see action in a middleweight bout.

Ry’Shine Collins (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on an opponent to be named in a bantamweight bout.

King’s Promotions (Carto vs. Rodriguez) Fight week schedule)

PRESS CONFERENCE-WED., NOV 7 AT 4 PM

WEIGH-IN-THURS–NOV.8 AT 4 PM

ALL EVENTS AT SUGARHOUSE CASINO

Philadelphia, PA (November 5, 2018) -Below is the fight week schedule for this Friday night’s King’s Promotions fight card at SugarHouse Casino in Philadelphia. In the main event, undefeated bantamweight Christian Carto takes on Antonio Rodriguez in a six-round bout. Also, an eight-round rematch will take place between junior welterweights Ricardo Garcia and Tyrone Crawley, Jr. Also seeing action will be undefeated welterweight Poindexter Knight, Jr.; Undefeated welterweight’s James Martin and Mark Dawson as well as lightweight Frankie Trader.

Wednesday, November 7th—Press Conference
(All Times Eastern)

4:00 pm Press Conference

Location: Fishtown Hops at SugarHouse Casino

1001 North Delaware Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19125

3:30 p.m. Media Arrival

4:00 p.m. Press conference begins

Thursday, November 8th-Weigh In

4:00 p.m. Weigh-in

Location: Fishtown Hops at SugarHouse Casino

1001 North Delaware, Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19125

3:30 p.m. Media Arrival

4:00 p.m. Weigh-In

Thursday, November 9th–FIGHT NIGHT

7:00 p.m. Fight Night

Location: SugarHouse Casino Event Center

1001 North Delaware Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19125

6:00 p.m. Doors Open

7:00 p.m. 1st bout

Bright Prospects From Hard Hitting Promotions Highlight Non-Televised Undercard of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, November 16 At The 2300 Arena

PHILADELPHIA — A bevy of prospects will be on display as part of the non-televised undercard of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, November 16 at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Highly-touted junior welterweight Branden Pizarro will see action in an eight-round bout as he takes on Jerome Rodriguez.

The 19-year-old Pizarro, of Philadelphia, is a two-year professional with a record of 12-1 with six knockouts. One of the top amateurs in the country before turning professional, Pizarro has a knockout win over Abdiel Padilla. In his last bout, Pizarro stopped 30-fight veteran Justin Johnson in two rounds on October 6 at The 2300 Arena.

Rodriguez, of Allentown, Penn., has a record of 7-10-3 with two knockouts. The 32 year-old has big wins over Tre’Sean Wiggins (3-0) and world-ranked Avery Sparrow (4-0). Rodriguez, who has fought 10 undefeated opponents, is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Jeremy Cuevas on October 6 at The 2300 Arena.

In a six-round bout, Gadwyn Rosa (8-0, 7 KOs) of Ocala, Fla., will take on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

Christian Tapia (6-0, 5 KOs), of Coamao, PR, will take on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

Benny Sinakin (1-0), of Philadelphia, takes on an opponent to be named in a light heavyweight bout.

Angel Pizarro (4-0, 3 KOs), of Philadelphia, will take on an opponent to be named in a super bantamweight bout.

Former top-amateur standout, David Stevens, of Reading, Penn, will make his pro debut in a cruiserweight bout.

In the previously announced main event, highly touted unbeaten welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis will square off against 11-year professional Raymond Serrano in a Philadelphia vs. Philadelphia 10-round bout in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® at 9:35 p.m. ET/PT from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by Victory Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions are priced $50, $75 and $125 and can be purchased at 2300arena.com and hardhittingpromotions.com.

Rodriguez, 25 years old of Newark, New Jersey by way of Quebradillas, Puerto Rico has a record of 3-0.

Rodriguez had an amateur career that saw him compile a record of 78-11, which included a being a New Jersey Golden Gloves Championship, three-time Diamond Gloves champion, two-time New Jersey state champion, two-time Puerto Rico national champion, Elite Heat champion and a bronze medal winner at the Wilfredo Gomez International Tournament.

He turned professional on April 22, 2017 with a four-round decision over Jaxel Morrero. In his last outing, Rodriguez won a four-round unanimous decision over Ndira Spearman on June 29th in Bensalem, Pennsylvania.

“I am happy to be with Hard Hitting Promotions. They are one of the best promoters on the East Coast, and I like the way they work with people,” said Rodriguez.

“I am looking to fight five or six times in the next year. This is the way that I feed my family, and I am grateful that Hard Hitting Promotions is given me that opportunity. I can not wait to start, and show the world my talent.”

“We are excited to add Emmanuel to our roster,” said Manny Rivera of Hard Hitting Promotions. “Emmanuel is a good prospect and we see a lot of potential in him. He fits right in with all of our other young talent, and we see big things in his future.”

NEW YORK (October 30, 2018) –Split-T Management’s Ivan Baranchyk won the IBF Junior Welterweight title with a 7th round stoppage over Anthony Yigit.

The bout, which took place in New Orleans, was also part of the World Boxing Super Series, giving Baranchyk more than just a world title to celebrate.

Baranchyk took the fight to Yigit, as he landed many power shots that made the left eye of Yigit swell very badly. With the eye just about closed, the fight was halted after the 7th frame, gibing Baranchyk the coveted world title.

Baranchyk will now face the winner of next Saturday’s contest between Josh Taylor and Ryan Martin, which will take place in Glasgow, Scotland.

“This is the best feeling in the world,” said Baranchyk. “To become world champion, I feel like I am the best fighter in the tournament. It was a good fight, I was able to implore my style and get the stoppage. I will rest for a a week or so, and then start my work for my next fight.”

“I couldn’t be happier than I am for Ivan. He deserved this and worked for it as hard as anyone can. You have to be around Ivan to really realize how intense and dedicated he is. We are looking forward to the next round and I honestly don’t think Ivan cares which one he fights,” said David McWater of Split T Management.

NEW YORK (October 30, 2018) –Split-T Management’s Ivan Baranchyk won the IBF Junior Welterweight title with a 7th round stoppage over Anthony Yigit.

The bout, which took place in New Orleans, was also part of the World Boxing Super Series, giving Baranchyk more than just a world title to celebrate.

Baranchyk took the fight to Yigit, as he landed many power shots that made the left eye of Yigit swell very badly. With the eye just about closed, the fight was halted after the 7th frame, gibing Baranchyk the coveted world title.

Baranchyk will now face the winner of next Saturday’s contest between Josh Taylor and Ryan Martin, which will take place in Glasgow, Scotland.

“This is the best feeling in the world,” said Baranchyk. “To become world champion, I feel like I am the best fighter in the tournament. It was a good fight, I was able to implore my style and get the stoppage. I will rest for a a week or so, and then start my work for my next fight.”

“I couldn’t be happier than I am for Ivan. He deserved this and worked for it as hard as anyone can. You have to be around Ivan to really realize how intense and dedicated he is. We are looking forward to the next round and I honestly don’t think Ivan cares which one he fights,” said David McWater of Split T Management.

Isiah Seldon ready for undefeated middleweight Tyler Howard on November 16th in Oklahoma City

Atlantic City, NJ (November 1, 2018) – Middleweight Isiah Seldon is getting ready for his biggest fight of his career when he takes on undefeated Tyler Howard in a bout scheduled for eight-round on November 16th at The Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City.

The bout, which is promoted by Top Rank, will be streamed live on ESPN+.

The main event will see WBO Junior Welterweight champion Maurice Hooker defending against Alex Saucedo.

Seldon (12-1-1, 4 KOs) has been training in Atlantic City under the watchful eye of Bill Johnson.

“I am looking forward to this great opportunity,” said Seldon. “I have been longing for an opportunity to take on a fighter such as Howard as a win will take my career to the next level.”

Team Seldon, has been working diligently with longtime manager Jim Kurtz very excited about the opportunity that Seldon has in front of him.

“It doesn’t get any bigger than fighting on a Top Rank show with an explosive main event between Hooker and Saucedo. The staff at Top Rank has been top notch. I am really excited for Isiah to get this opportunity to display his talents on a big stage. Myself and co-manager Joe Thompson are convinced Isiah is ready to shine on November 16th and it can’t get here fast enough,” said Kurtz, who has manged Seldon from day one.

“Isiah has reunited with his original trainer Bill Johnson and they haven’t skipped a beat. This is the first time Isiah has had a full fledged training camp. We haven’t left any stone unturned in preparation for this fight. Isiah’s conditioning is at a point that I have never seen with him before. He is getting great sparring and his improvement working with Bill in preparation for this fight has been incredible. He is ready to show the world a new and improved Isiah Seldon. He has a large legacy to follow being the son of former WBA Heavyweight Champion Bruce Seldon but Isiah is determined to make his own mark on the sport of boxing.”

“He has always had power in both hands, scoring knockdown in almost every fight, but now he is learning to remain calm and finish guys instead of getting overly excited and letting them off the hook. He is punching harder than ever before, putting his punches together and his boxing ability has reached a level where he can control the pace of the fight. We have taken it slow with Isiah considering he didn’t have any amateur fights but we are now at the point where he is ready to make his mark on the Middleweight division.”

“We know Tyler Howard is a good undefeated fighter. He had a good amateur career, comes from a family with a boxing background, and has a solid management team who have done a great job with him. On November 16th we expect a tough fight with some fireworks but we are confident Isiah will emerge victorious and this will lead us to bigger and better opportunities.”

PHILADELPHIA, PENN.(November 2, 2018)–Banner Promotions has announced the signing of two-time Olympian and undefeated light heavyweight Kennedy Katende to a promotional contract.

Katende of Sweden was born in Uganda, and competed in the 2008 and 2016 Olympic Games.

Katende has an unblemished professional record of 4-0 with one knockout.

The 33 year-old began fighting at the age of 12 after his mother passed away.

“We moved to Sweden, and it was hard for me. I started to gain weight, and my father made me run to get back in shape. My older brother started boxing and I followed him to the gym. My father was hard on me to lose the weight, and I started to box, just so I wouldn’t have him yell at me while running,” said Katende.

Katende then had a very successful amateur career where he win approximately 175 of 200 bouts.

Katende qualified for the 2008 Olympics for his birthplace of Uganda, but lost to current IBF Light Heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev. Katende was the only fighter to go the distance with Beterbiev. Katende also participated in the 2016 games.

Katende fought in the World Series of Boxing where he had a record of 11-2.

Katende turned professional on November 26, 2016 with a four-round unanimous decision over Tracey Johnson. Katende has wins over undefeated Lyubomyr Pinchuk (4-0) and his last bout where he defeated hard punching Luther Smith (10-2) on April 21st in Brooklyn.

“I signed with Banner Promotions because I have heard good things. Artie Pelullo called me, and that meant a lot to me. I know Banner Promotions is a big promoter that has a lot of success with European boxers. I know Artie has heard a lot about me, and I know that he can get me to a world title. “

“I have had tough fights. My last fight I took on two days notice. That shows that I am willing to fight anyone.”

Katende, who has been fighting at cruiserweight will campaign at light heavyweight.

When describing his style, Katende says he is really fast, and has good reflexes who likes to box from both the orthodox and southpaw stances.

The Articulate Katende is studying to become a Physical Education teacher in Sweden, and is a personal trainer.

Katende has one daughter and raises three more children with his girlfriend in Sweden.

Said Katende’s manager Pat Zagarino, “I view this as a great opportunity to manage a potential world champion. He will be a serious challenger to any of the existing world champions. He will not be a secret for very long. I am grateful for this unique opportunity with Banner Promotions. Banner Promotions has had great success with foreign fighters getting them world title opportunities.”

“We are excited to have Kennedy in the fold,” said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo. “He is a very good prospect with a terrific pedigree. We look forward to getting him in the ring and have him in meaningful fights and eventually a world championship.”

15. Arthur Grigorian – Former WBO World Lightweight Champion who defended his word title 17 times

16. Jaime Munguia – Devasting Knockout Puncher

WBO champ Jaime Munguia

Photos by Fernando Gaztambide / WBO

Sullivan Barrera Hosts Miami, Florida Media Workout

Seanie Monaghan Hosts Long Island, NY Media Workout

(Miami, Florida and Long Island, NY): Sullivan Barrera (21-2, 14 KOs) and “Irish” Seanie Monaghan (29-1, 17 KOs) hosted open media workouts on Friday, October 19, in advance of their upcoming main event at The Aviator Sports and Events Center in Brooklyn, NY on Saturday, November 3, 2018.

“I always come to fight. Every fight leaves a lesson. I took many lessons from the fight against (Dmitry) Bivol. I saw opportunities I did not take.”

“Come November 3rd, I will not allow any opportunity to slip, and capitalize on his mistakes. Derik (Santos, Barrera’s trainer) and I worked on all those details.”

Sean Monaghan

Photo Credit: Chris Hamlet/Main Events

Quotes from Seanie Monaghan:

“Even though it was a long layoff, it has still been a productive year. I got a lot better just being in the gym all this time and working this whole time.”

“I didn’t even realize it. I did an interview with someone recently, and I realized I have been boxing for 17 years. Seventeen years is a long time. I have been in the gym a long time and every time I go there, I just try to get in the best shape possible.

“I have boxing skills. I use them in the gym all the time, but when I get in the fight, I always feel compelled to go brawl. There is another way to do things. I am smart enough. I am trying to box more and get hit a little bit less. I have reached a new level of maturity.”

“This fight is do or die for both of us. We both know what time it is. Me and Barrera have been talking trash to each other on Twitter for a while. We both respect each other but it is going to be two dogs with one piece of meat. I’ve got to feed my kids and he does too, so may the best man win.”

“I work out with a good group of young amateurs, and they keep me young. They challenge me in the sprints and motivate me.”

“We handled it the right way, I took my foot off the gas so, I wouldn’t over train. I’m in the best shape of my life, I know I say that at every camp, but this is legitimate, I’ve been legitimate. For months and months in preparing and it’s the best possible version of me there ever been.”

“Barrera is the man. He’s probably the most dangerous guy right below world champion level there is. His only two losses were to world champions, and he took them to deep water and gave them a hard time.”

“This is a giant test for me, and it’s do or die for both of our careers. The winner moves on to big things and the loser, you know it’s not looking good for them. We’re both in the same boat and we’re both looking for the same thing, so it’s going to be a battle.”

“I always expect the best version of whoever I’m fighting. I’ve learned through experience that when you watch a guy on tape and sometimes fight them, they don’t do what they did on the tape, and do something different. I’ve seen (Barrera) in a lot of fights. I’ve seen him hang tough with tough guys, and he’s as game as they come. As hard as you want to fight he’ll fight you back that hard, and he’ll get dropped and get up and fight even harder.”

“I’m mentally prepared for the long haul, mentally and physically I am ready to do whatever it takes and to dig as deep as I have to.”

Quotes from P.J. Kavanaugh, Monaghan’s Manager:

“Seanie knows he has a tough fight, he’s digging down deep and putting in a little extra. He started training camp way back. He’s faster on the track, he’s getting extra rounds sparring. He’s in the best shape I’ve ever seen him.”

“We’re working on some combinations for Barrera. Some things we think might work with him. They both like to come and fight.”

“Seanie knows how important it is for both of them. Like the poster says, it’s a high stakes fight. The winner moves on. The loser has a tough road.”

“He has the same hunger at this stage of his career he always has. He comes to fight.”

“We’re going to have a great atmosphere, a great time. He loves the home town crowd. He loves staying in his bed at night, being at home with his wife and kids.”

“Overall, Seanie has a reputation of being tough. He’ll brawl. In this camp, we’ve seen a lot more of his boxing skills. There’s definitely a wisdom about it.”

“We are very excited about Facebook live streaming this. It’s great for the sport. You’ll have people watching this worldwide. Seanie has a tremendous following in Ireland.”

About Barrera-Monaghan: This light heavyweight main event will headline the Saturday, November 3 card as part of the Golden Boy Fight Night series on Facebook, live from The Aviator. The event is promoted by Main Events. The action will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT/9:00 p.m. ET.

Tickets, priced from $125 to $55, go on sale to the public on Friday, October xx, and will be available through Ticketmaster or by calling or emailing Main Events: 973-200-7050; boxing@mainevents.com.

Many of New England’s most talented and popular boxers will be on the card, which will also feature a Massachusetts State title fight in Granite Chin Promotions’ third and final show of 2018.

“We are excited to be running once again on Thanksgiving Eve,” said GCP co-promoter Chris Traietti, who will also be fighting on this card. “Throughout the last few years, Granite Chin has been trying to make it a Thanksgiving tradition to bring local boxing to the area as a fun way to get people together.”

The wildly popular Lopes (18-4-3, 1 KO), fighting out of Marshfield, MA, is a native of Poland. She hasn’t fought since last December due to injuries suffered in a car accident. Lopes will face

Iraq-War veteran Traietti (26-5, 21 KOs), of Quincy, MA, will not have his N.E. cruiserweight title on the line in a six-round bout versus upset-minded Sam “The Russian Concussion” Horowitz (6-3-2, 5 KOs), of Chicago.

Gloucester, MA super middleweight prospect Henry Gedney (1-0), a winner at the 2017 Rocky Marciano Tournament, is scheduled to fight Francisco Neto (1-0), of Woburn, in a four-round bout to open the show.

NEW YORK (Oct. 31, 2018) – Recently eclipsing three-million series views, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast is set to hit a few more milestones on Saturday, Dec. 1, in San Antonio, Texas. Partnering once again with the legendary Roy Jones Jr. and Keith Veltre of RJJ Promotions, the interactive, fan-friendly series will hold its 25th show – live from its tenth state of origin – showcasing a pair of undefeated warriors with hardware on the line. Local flair will also be on display on any device wherever Facebook is available beginning at 6:30 p.m. E.T. (5:30 p.m. C.T.).

“Roy and I have always felt that live streaming would take the place of the old platforms of delivering fights,” stated Keith Veltre, CEO and Co-Founder of Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions. “This will give us the ability to reach millions of boxing fans around the world and enable us to deliver our sponsors a great deal of exposure we would normally get from traditional TV. This series is giving fighters the opportunity to showcase their talent to the world and gain a fan base. We are thrilled that this vision lines up exactly where Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions wants to be.”

The Saturday, Dec. 1, show from the fabled Scottish Rite Theatre in San Antonio features a 10-round main event between undefeated super lightweights Kendo Castaneda (14-0, 7 KOs) and Gilbert Venegas Jr. (10-0, 6 KOs), who will battle for the vacant WBA-NABA championship. Local favorites Ricky Medina (1-0, 1 KO), Luis Villarreal (3-0-1, 1 KO) and Xavier Wilson (8-0-1, 1 KO) will put their undefeated records on the line as part of a stacked undercard.

“Roy Jones Jr. and Keith Veltre have believed in our FIGHTNIGHT LIVE platform from the beginning and we’re thrilled to partner with them once again on what will be our 25th show in the series,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “We’re also excited to make our series debut in the Lone Star State, the tenth State in the Union for our FIGHTNIGHT LIVE shows. It’ll be a hot one in Texas to open our December schedule.”

Now in its second season, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast is the fan-friendly series that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has showcased more than 399 fighters and 12 promotions during 22 live event broadcasts from 15 different cities since May 2017, and in doing so, the interactive platform has generated the loyal interest of fight fans from across the United States and around the globe, including significant audiences in Mexico, the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, and even fans in South America, Asia and Australia.

Since May 2017, the numbers on the 22-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series have showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of 136,405 views per event and more than 3.0 million total views for the franchise. Since Sept. 2018, Season II shows have averaged 315,000 views.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” (594,447) from the Sands in Bethlehem, the Oct. 2018 “Hard Hitting Philly Special” (297,545), the Oct. 2018 hour-long Bareknuckle “Freeview” (292,253), the Sept. 2017 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August 2017 CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Oct. 2018 CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (196,656), the Sept. 2018 “Card Fit For Kings” from Philadelphia (195,620), the Sept. 2017 CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” (151,253) all logged 150,000 or more views, and collectively the 22-show series has seen a total of 3,000,915 views across all devices.

In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 266,000 collective live post engagements (more than 12,000 per show), including more than 198,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 40,000 comments and more than 13,000 shares.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” from the Sands in Bethlehem set a new bar with 594,447 views and the Sept. 2017 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Sept. 2017 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves” and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” set a new high-water mark for shares with 2,182.

The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 83,000 fans and more than 88,000 followers.

Totowa, NJ – October 8, 2018 – Former WBC International Light Heavyweight world champion Sullivan Barrera (21-2, 14 KOs) returns to the ring to regain his standing as one of the world’s top light heavyweights. Barrera faces top five light heavyweight contender “Irish” Seanie Monaghan (29-1, 17 KOs) in the 10-round main event at The Aviator Sports and Events Center in Brooklyn, NY on Saturday, November 3, 2018. The event is promoted by Main Events and will be streamed live via Facebook Watch as part of the Golden Boy Fight Night series.

Seanie Monaghan

Tickets are priced at $125 and $100 for VIP ringside seats and $50 for general admission. They are available to purchase now through Eventbrite or by calling Main Events at 973-200-7050 or emailingboxing@mainevents.com.

Barrera vs. Monaghan was originally scheduled to take place on August 18 but was postponed when Barrera suffered an eye injury. Barrera has since recovered, and Monaghan remained available to put the bout back on the Facebook Watch series, a collaboration between Golden Boy Promotions, Facebook and Main Events, offered to fans around the world via live online streaming.

Barrera, 36, a native of Cuba who defected to the United States after fighting for the Cuban National Team, now lives and trains in Miami, Florida. He makes his return to the ring after taking WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Dmitry Bivol deep into the 12th round of their title fight in March before being stopped, by far the most difficult opponent of Bivol’s professional career. The WBC ranks Barrera fourth in the competitive Light Heavyweight division.

Sullivan Barrera, Credit Joe Spagnolo

Monaghan, also 36, is a Long Island, New York native with proud Irish roots. He began his professional boxing career at the late age of 28 but quickly made up for lost time. After his first and only loss as a professional in 30 fights to Marcus Browne in July 2017, Monaghan started his comeback quest with a win in November 2017 and intends to make up for lost time against Barrera.

“Thank you to my team, my coach Derik Santos, my promoter Main Events, my manager Luis Molina, and thanks to Seanie Monaghan for taking this fight,” said Barrera. “As always, I’m willing to face the top guys in my division. This is another tough fighter. I look forward to November 3, and I’ll give the fans a great show. They will see me start to climb my way back up to facing the very best light heavyweights in the world.”

Barrera’s trainer, Derik Santos, said training is already underway for the fight. “We are working and are dedicated as usual. Thank you to manager Luis Molina and our promoter Main Events. Sullivan has gone into tough fights over the years and has consistently shown himself to be one of the toughest light heavyweight contenders in the division.”

Despite the pressure on them, Barrera and Santos maintain the same confidence and positive attitude that led Barrera to the top. “Train well and overcome, has been the directive since day one,” declared Santos. “Our expectations are the same today.”

Barrera is no stranger to Seanie Monaghan, and he’s looking forward to the matchup. “This fight is do or die for both of us. I’ve been going back and forth with Barrera on Twitter for a couple of years now. This will finally be our chance to settle it in the ring, no more talking,” said Monaghan.

Monaghan lost his father over the summer. He planned from that day to bring the late Davy Monaghan’s ashes back to his hometown of Navan in Ireland someday while wearing a title belt around his waist. His fight with Barrera is as much for his father as it is for himself.

In the ultra-competitive light heavyweight division, the talent pool is deep, and virtually every fighter ranked among the Top 15 contenders is a threat to the current titleholders. Main Events’ CEO and Barrera’s promoter, Kathy Duva, originally selected this high-stakes fight as a perfect fit for the Main Events-promoted card in the Golden Boy Fight Night series and remained resolved to make the fight happen after the cancellation.

“Expanding access to our fan-friendly fights around the world with online streaming technology is the latest chapter in the 40-year history of Main Events,” said Duva. “Boxing has always been able to adapt and stay current as a sport.”

Duva promised: “Technology has changed a lot in this world, but one thing will never change about Main Events: our determination to make the best matches and feature amazing athletes in the ring. We wanted Sullivan Barrera and Seanie Monaghan in the ring and were more disappointed than anyone when the original bout was postponed. We were determined to make this fight happen, because I know these guys will give everything they’ve got for their legacy, and for the fans.”

About Barrera-Monaghan: This light heavyweight main event will headline the Saturday, November 3 card as part of the Golden Boy Fight Night series on Facebook, live from The Aviator. The event is promoted by Main Events. The action will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT/9:00 p.m. ET.

Washington, D.C. (October 31, 2018) – Welterweight contender Dusty Harrison will return to the ring as he takes on battle-tested, James Winchester in the 10-round main event on Saturday, December 1st at The ESA- Entertainment and Sports Arena, (1100 Oak Drive, Washington, DC)

The card is promoted by Tricky Entertainment & DC Fightnight.

Harrison of Washington, D.C. has an undefeated mark of 30-0-1 with 15 knockouts.

Harrison, 24 years old was a decorated amateur who turned professional at the age of 17.

Harrison has racked up wins against Josh Torres (12-2-1), former world title challenger Michael Clark (44-11-1) & Tommy Rainone (22-5-1).

In his last bout, Harrison took a ten-round unanimous decision over Thomas LaManna (21-1) to capture the USBA Welterweight title on September 15, 2016 in Philadelphia.

Winchester has a record of 20-13 with eight knockouts.

Winchester of Reidsville, North Carolina is a 15 year professional who has a win over John Butler (23-3) and has taken on fighters such as Matt Korobov, Glen Tapia, Luis Arias, Terrell Gausha and his last bout when he went the distance with top-prospect Jaron Ennis on March 31, 2017 in Philadelphia.

A bevy of the finest fighters from the Beltway region will be on display such such welterweight Kareem Martin (10-2, 3 KOs), who will take part in the eight-round co-feature. Also appearing in an eight-round bout will be light heavyweight Alexander Johnson (16-4-1, 7 KOs)

Over 8,500 fight fans filled the TD Garden, formerly known as the Boston Garden, and nearly a thousand of them traveled from Great Britain and Ireland. The majority of the remaining were “Southies” (Boston residents of Irish descent from southside of city). “Southies” are a group of devout Roman Catholics who take no crap and fanatically support anyone connected to the Emerald Isle. Most of those in the crowd had surnames such as O’Grady, Malone, McQuade, Sullivan and so on.

This was the hostile environment that newly minted IBF Super Featherweight Champ Tevin Farmer, 28, had to endure when making his first defense against Belfast, Northern Ireland citizen James “The Assassin” Tennyson. A native of North Philly, Farmer did not let this distract him from his mission.

Tevin Farmer victorious after stopping Tennyson in 5

Not long after the first bell chimed, a fired up Tennyson, 130, began aggressively pursuing Farmer, 129.6. This seemed to disrupt Tevin’s rhythm and when the session ended, the crowd, which included Ireland’s own WBO featherweight champ Carl Frampton and the pride of Irish scrappers Conor McGregor, erupted in loud and enthusiastic approval. Physically bigger and appearing to be stronger, Tennyson, 25, adorned in velvet green trunks, was effective in landing sneaky right uppercuts to Farmer’s head.

Tevin Farmer (R) and James Tennyson (L) exchange leather.

Signs of what were in store for Tennyson began to surface as the fleet-footed champion planted his toes and started scoring quick and accurate combos to the head and digging hard shots to the body. A precise left to the liver from the southpaw Farmer dropped Tennyson in the fourth.

Farmer continued hurting Tennyson with blows to the gut early in the fifth, and then finished off the challenger with one last laser sharp smack to the liver, leaving the Irishman hitting the deck on all fours wincing in pain. Seeing this, Referee Arthur Mercante Jr. jumped in waved things off at 1:21 of the session. It may have seemed Mercante pulled the trigger a little to quickly, but the lack of complaint from Tennyson’s staff certified that it was the right call.

Farmer (L) rips Tennyson (R) with a hard left.

Without a doubt this was the performance of the evening. Considering the volume of world class boxers on the fight card, it was an honorable accomplishment for Tevin. As trainer Chino Rivas unwrapped the Lou DiBella Promoted Farmer’s hands, it did not go unnoticed the amount of attention paid to him by Match Room promoter Eddie Hearn.

Standing in the ring in his furry pink and lime green attire, Farmer thanked him team and went on to say, “I pushed the fighter who was trying to push me back. I got the belt and I want Gervonta Davis.”

Tevin Farmer the winner and still IBF Featherweight Champion.

It has been eighteen months since this writer watched the mouthy Gervonta Davis get in Farmer’s face, spewing smack from his lips in the lobby at the MGM National Harbor in Oxen Hill, Maryland. This took place after Tevin’s stablemate Jason Sosa lost in his bout against Vasily Lomanchecko. A group of Davis’ friends from Washington D.C. got their kicks listening to his diatribe. Who is laughing now as Davis runs around partying at close to a 160 pounds with pal Adrian Broner? Meanwhile, anyone around the Philly fight scene will tell you Farmer is always fit, continues to train whether or not he has a scheduled bout. By showing improved power in his last few outings, the pundits are now making Farmer the favorite against Davis.

Tevin Farmer nails James Tennyson

Going home across the Atlantic, Tennyson licks his wounds with a 22-3 (18 KO’s) mark. Scheduled to compete again on the Canelo vs. Fielding show at Madison Garden on December 15, Farmer raised his record to 27-4-1 (6 KO’s).

Pleasing the fans with their second American promotion, Match Room partnered with Boston-based promoter Murphy Boxing.

– October 20, 2018.

Ivan Baranchyk ready for world title this Saturday against Anthony Yigit as part of WBSS in New Orleans

NEW YORK (October 26, 2018) –Undefeated Ivan Baranchyk (18-0, 11 KOs) is destined to become a world champion when he takes on Anthony Yigit in a fight for the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight title as part of the WBSS, Saturday night in New Orleans (DAZN, 8 pm ET).

Baranchyk of Miami, Oklahoma via Russia is one of the most exciting fighters in the world as he is a come-forward fighter who likes to throw hard power shots.

In Yigit (21-0-1, 7 KOs), Baranchyk is facing a boxer from Sweden, who will be looking to stand in the way of Baranchyk’s dream of becoming a world champion.

Baranchyk is looking to become the next world champion under the guidance of Split-T Management.

Baranchyk scaled 140 lbs at Friday’s weigh in, while Yigit was 139.7

WBSS Season 2 Quarter-Finals – New Orleans: Weigh-In

“I am good, and ready for this fight. It has been a dream to become world champion, and Saturday I have a chance to realize that and at the same time advance in this great tournament,” said Baranchyk.

“It’s a truly exciting moment in time. To have a client with such a great work ethic, and so much heart, and now seeing him get that opportunity he deserves is an outstanding feeling,” said David McWater of Split-T Management.

Kilic shines on ShoBox; Menard primes for big opportunity, and Henderson looking for step-up bout in December

Beverly Hills, Calif. (October 26, 2018) – As the season change, and the Fall season is upon us, Three members of Shane Shapiro’s No Limit Mindset LLC. management stable are making moves.

On September 28th, super middleweight, Cem Kilic won an eight-round unanimous decision over fellow undefeated fighter DeAndre Ware in a bout that was nationally televised on ShoBox: The New Generation from Temecula, California.

On October 13th, lightweight contender Mason Menard got back into the win column with a six-round unanimous decision over Ronald Rivas in Gary, Indiana.

Also, super middleweight Kalvin Henderson will look for a step-up bout in December when he takes on Brandon Robinson on December 7th in Philadelphia.

Cem Kilic Improves To 12-0 After UD Win On ShoBox

“Cem gave an unbelievable performance showing his heart, his chin and his ultimate will to win! His last 2 opponents had a combined record of 19-1 and Cem showed me he’s exactly where he needs to be in terms of his development after 12 pro fights. DeAndre Ware beats a lot of guys at 168 lbs and with Cem winning a unanimous decision, this showed me why he’s considered one of the best prospects in Boxing. We had such great support from the local fans and so many people who tuned in live. A big thank you to Gordon Hall and Showtime for the opportunity!” – Manager Shane Shapiro

“Cem Kilic is a star in the making. His inspiring performance against DeAndre Ware was the next step in his evolution to become a world champion. The kid is the complete package in and out of the ring and is a true gentleman and a pleasure to work with. His upside is limitless!” – Kilic Promoter Greg Cohen

“It was good to get back in the ring get back in the Win column and shake off some rust. I was able to actually throw some punches and work on some things unlike the Haney fight where I was chasing around the ring for the entire fight. I saw some things that I need to work on and now I’m excited and ready to do a full 6 week training camp in Houston to bring out the best of me for December 8th!” – Mason Menard

Menard’s next high-profile bout will be announced shortly.￼

Kalvin Henderson Returns December 7th against Brandon Robinson in Philadelphia

…

10-0 Kalvin Henderson fighting 11-1 Brandon Robinson in his first fight with Marshall Kauffman’s King Promotions.

“I’m excited show the rest of the world what my team and I already know, and that’s that we have the skills, talent, and work ethic to become a world champion. I’m blessed for the opportunity Marshall presented to me and I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity. Hot Sauce will be bringing all of the heat with me come December,” said Henderson.

“This is a great fight for Kalvin’s development, Robinson is a tough veteran who will come to win. An impressive performance by Henderson, which is usually the case, tells me he’s ready for a big step up in 2019!. A big thank you to Marshall Kauffman for this opportunity.” – Manager Shane Shapiro

Adams, 19-2 with 13 knockouts, won a five-round unanimous decision over highly-regarded Ievgen Khytov on the most recent episode that aired on Friday night.

In that bout, Adams dropped Khytov in round two with a left hook. Adams continuously beat Khytrov to the punch, and did some of his work on the inside. Adams went on to win by scores of 50-44 and 49-45 twice.

Adams will now face the winner of the John Thompson / Eric Walker bout in the semi-final round.

The original Contender series ran for four seasons (2005-2009) and launched multiple fighters into contention for world titles, including title winners Sergio Mora, Cornelius Bundrage, Sakio Bika, and Sam Soliman.

Eric Van Wagenen serves as executive producer and showrunner of the revived franchise alongside Mark Burnett. The format is owned by MGM Television and Paramount Television.

MGM Television is a leading producer and global distributor of premium content for television and digital platforms, with distribution rights to original productions and a robust catalog of television episodes and feature film titles including such premiere entertainment franchises as James Bond, Rocky, Stargate and The Hobbit trilogy. Current scripted and unscripted projects include Fargo (FX); Vikings (HISTORY); The Handmaid’s Tale (Hulu); Get Shorty (EPIX); The Voice (NBC); Survivor (CBS); Shark Tank (ABC); Teen Wolf (MTV); Steve Harvey’s FUNDERDOME (ABC); Beat Shazam (FOX); Signed (VH1); Lucha Underground (The El Rey Network); and through its distribution entity, Orion TV Productions, the syndicated daytime courtroom series Lauren Lake’s Paternity Court and Couples Court with The Cutlers. In addition, MGM owns Evolution Media, the innovative unscripted television producers of The Real Housewives of Orange County, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Vanderpump Rules, Vanderpump Rules: Jax and Brittany Take Kentucky, and Sweet Home Oklahoma (Bravo); Botched (E!); Bug Juice (Disney Channel) and Growing Up Supermodel (Lifetime).MGM’s television programming regularly airs in more than 100 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

About EPIX

EPIX, an MGM company, is a premium pay television network, delivering the latest movie releases and biggest classic film franchises, plus original programming including series, documentaries, and comedy specials – all available on TV, on demand, online and across devices. Launched in October 2009, EPIX became profitable in its first year of existence and is now available nationwide to 70 million homes through cable, telco, satellite and emerging digital distribution platforms. A pioneer in the development and proliferation of “TV Everywhere,” EPIX was the first premium network to provide multi-platform access to its content online at EPIX.com and to launch on Xbox, PlayStation®, Android phones and tablets, and Roku® players. EPIX is also available across hundreds of consumer devices including Apple TV, iPhone and iPad, Amazon Fire TV, TiVo, Chromecast, and Android TV, delivering more movies than any other network with thousands of titles available for streaming. For more information about EPIX, go to www.EPIX.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHd (http://www.twitter.com/EpixHD) and on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/EPIX), YouTube (http://youtube.com/EPIX), Instagram (http://instagram.com/EPIX) and Snapchat @EPIXTV.

NEW YORK (Oct. 17, 2018) – With more than one million views across the first three shows of its new season, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast makes its way to Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Conn. on Saturday to once again showcase some of New England’s finest with Jimmy Burchfield Sr.’s Classic Entertainment and Sports (CES). Fans from across the globe can catch all the action for FREE beginning at 8 p.m. ET on any device wherever Facebook is available.

“We are excited to announce that our CES Boxing – Foxwoods series will once again to streamed live on facebook to FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast. This innovative platform allows us to showcase our dynamic fighters to a national audience. If you can’t make it to Foxwoods, be sure to check out FIGHTNIGHT LIVE,” said Burchfield, Sr.

“We love partnering with CES. We know each other, we love working on shows with the Burchfield Family and have relationships with the promoters and fighters that extend long past the bell,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “This is a great card and we’re especially looking forward to the main event. These are great people and great athletes and we’re excited as always to give them a platform to showcase their talent and tell their stories.”

Now in its second season, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast is the fan-friendly series that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has showcased more than 380 fighters and 11 promotions during 20 live event broadcasts since May 2017, and in doing so, the interactive platform has generated the loyal interest of fight fans from across the United States and around the globe, including significant audiences in Mexico, the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, and even fans in South America, Asia and Australia.

Since May 2017, the numbers on the 20-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of 125,600 views per event and more than 2.5 million total views for the franchise.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” (594,447) from the Sands in Bethlehem, the Oct. 2018 “Hard Hitting Philly Special” (297,545), the Sept. 2017 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August 2017 CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Sept. 2018 “Card Fit For Kings” from Philadelphia (195,620), the Sept. 2017 CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” (151,253) all logged 150,000 or more views, and collectively the 20-show series has seen a total of more than 2,512,006 views across all devices.

In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 227,600 collective live post engagements (more than 11,300 per show), including more than 165,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 36,000 comments and almost 12,000 shares.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” from the Sands in Bethlehem set a new bar with 594,447 views and the Sept. 2017 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Sept. 2017 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves” and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” set a new high-water mark for shares with 2,182.

The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 82,000 fans and more than 86,000 followers.

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Fall and Winter 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.

About Everlast Worldwide Inc.

The preeminent brand in boxing since 1910, Everlast is the world’s leading manufacturer, marketer and licensor of boxing, MMA and fitness equipment. From legendary champions Jack Dempsey and Sugar Ray Robinson to current superstars Deontay Wilderand Dustin Poirier, Everlast is the brand of choice for generations of world champion professional athletes. Built on a brand heritage of strength, dedication, individuality and authenticity, Everlast is a necessary part of the lives of countless champions. Based in Manhattan, Everlast’s products are sold across more than 75 countries and 6 continents. For more information, visit www.everlast.com.

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Fall and Winter 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and@FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.

About Everlast Worldwide Inc.

The preeminent brand in boxing since 1910, Everlast is the world’s leading manufacturer, marketer and licensor of boxing, MMA and fitness equipment. From legendary champions Jack Dempsey and Sugar Ray Robinson to current superstars Deontay Wilder and Dustin Poirier, Everlast is the brand of choice for generations of world champion professional athletes. Built on a brand heritage of strength, dedication, individuality and authenticity, Everlast is a necessary part of the lives of countless champions. Based in Manhattan, Everlast’s products are sold across more than 75 countries and 6 continents. For more information, visitwww.everlast.com.

Anvar Yunusov takes on Joshua Davis in main event on Friday, November 16th at Sands Bethlehem Event Center

Yunusov, who competed in the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Olympics for his native Tajikistan, is now 5-0 with two knockouts as a professional.

The 31 year-old fights out of Philadelphia, and turned professional in 2017. He has registered his two knockouts in his last two outings with a 4th round stoppage over former contender Mike Oliver, and in his lat bout when he destroyed Angel Monreal in one-round on September 14th in Philadelphia.

Davis of Washington, DC has a record of 11-3 with five knockouts.

The 27 year-old Davis is a seven-year professional, who has an impressive 7th round stoppage win over Carlos Rosario (7-1). Davis is looking to get back into the wins column as he has dropped his last two outings. In his last bout, Davis was stopped by undefeated Steven Ortiz on January 26th in Philadelphia.

A full undercard of top prospects in action-packed matchups will entertain the fans in attendance in Bethlehem.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $50, $75 and $100, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

______________________________

BOXING legend Graciano Rocchigiani has tragically died after a horror car crash in Italy.

By Paul Harper / Published 2nd October 2018

The 53-year-old German, who competed for nearly 20 years from 1983, had reportedly been travelling to visit the Italian mother of his two children.

He was a two-weight world champion, having held the IBF super-middleweight title from 1988 to 1989, and the WBC light-heavyweight title in 1998. Additionally he held the European light-heavyweight title from 1991 to 1992.

Boxing promoter Kalle Sauerland, who masterminded the World Boxing Series which culminated in the George Groves vs Callum Smith fight in Saudia Arabia last Friday, said he was “speechless”.

He told Bild: “He was our first World Champion.

“I grew up with him, so to speak.

“He was a wild guy with a big heart.”

He is the younger brother of former WBO cruiserweight champion Ralf Rocchigiani.

He ended his career with 41 wins in 48 fights, one draw and six losses which came in his final nine fights.

In his third to last contest, he suffered his only knockout defeat to Dariusz Michalczewski.

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE AVERAGING NEARLY 400,000 VIEWS PER SHOW IN SEASON II

Fan-friendly, interactive FREE series Powered by Everlast has now reached 2.2 million fans through 19 total shows.

NEW YORK (Oct. 1, 2018) – With almost 800,000 views across its first two Fall shows, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast is off to a tremendous Season II start, averaging nearly 400,000 views per event to date during its sophomore campaign.

By posting those September numbers, the free and interactive Facebook series has toppled the two million views plateau, having served 2,214,461 fight fans since its inception in May of 2017.

Now in its second season, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast is the fan-friendly series that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE hasshowcased more than 360 fighters and 11 promotions during 19 live event broadcasts since May 2017, and in doing so, the interactive platform has generated the loyal interest of fight fans from across the United States and around the globe, including significant audiences in Mexico, the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, and even fans in South America, Asia and Australia.

“It’s been rewarding for us to be able to serve fight fans in this way, during a time that is great for boxing, in our opinion,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “There are so many platforms available to watch fights right now, both broadcast and digital. We’re proud of what we’ve been able to build, giving so many up-and-coming fighters an outlet to showcase their skills and giving fans a free platform to watch fighters, comment on performances, ask questions and engage in debate. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is far from perfect, but it is growing into a truly interactive and fun, free platform for all.”

At more than 2.2 million views for the series, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has continued to deliver impressive numbers throughout its first 19 shows:

Since May 2017, the numbers on the 19-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of 116,551 views per event and more than 2.2 million total views for the franchise.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” (594,447) from the Sands in Bethlehem, the Sept. 2017 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August 2017 CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Sept. 2018 “Card Fit For Kings” from Philadelphia (195,620), the Sept. 2017 CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” (151,253) all logged 150,000 or more views, and collectively the 19-show series has seen a total of 2,214,461 views across all devices.

In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 191,000 collective live post engagements (more than 10,325 per show), including more than 132,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 35,000 comments and more than 11,000 shares.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” from the Sands in Bethlehem set a new bar with 594,447 views and the Sept. 2017 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Sept. 2017 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves” and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” set a new high-water mark for shares with 2,182.

The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 85,000 followers.

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Fall and Winter 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.

About Everlast Worldwide Inc.

The preeminent brand in boxing since 1910, Everlast is the world’s leading manufacturer, marketer and licensor of boxing, MMA and fitness equipment. From legendary champions Jack Dempsey and Sugar Ray Robinson to current superstars Deontay Wilderand Dustin Poirier, Everlast is the brand of choice for generations of world champion professional athletes. Built on a brand heritage of strength, dedication, individuality and authenticity, Everlast is a necessary part of the lives of countless champions. Based in Manhattan, Everlast’s products are sold across more than 75 countries and 6 continents. For more information, visit www.everlast.com.

Mohegan Sun – Uncasville, CT – Bouncing back from an 11-month layoff after breaking his jaw in a loss to Sullivan Barrera, Joe Smith Jr. got back in the win column with a first-round knockout of Melvin “The Romantic Redneck” Russell on June 30, 2018.

Joe Smith

A union laborer with Local 66 on Long Island when he’s not stepping into the ring for prize money, Smith dropped Russell twice before referee Steve Willis ended matters at the 1:45 mark.

Smith, 179, of Mastic, NY, initially came out patient in the opening stanza, pawing with the jab. However, when Russell, 177, of Ashland, Kentucky, dared to respond to handful of Smith power punches with a few of his own, Smith seemed to take offense and stepped up the aggression. He worked Russell into a corner and after a few jabs followed up with a beautiful right uppercut. A follow-up right hand and left hook sent Russell to the canvas – on his knees – a minute into the round.

Russell beat the count and then grabbed Smith as Smith closed in on him while throwing a left hook. However, “The Irish Bomber” wouldn’t be stopped. He threw multiple rights to the body while his left arm was being held by Russell. Soon after, Russell had Smith in a full-fledged arm bar. Willis had to break the fighters and not long after, Russell found himself in danger again. Beginning an attack with a few jabs, and a nondescript right hand thrown in the mix, Smith then landed a perfect right uppercut to Russell’s temple that sent the 39-year-old crashing to the canvas near a corner. Russell managed to get to his knees but then fell forward, signaling Willis to call a halt to the slaughter. Smith, 28, raised his record to 24-2 (20 knockouts). Russell, who has now lost four of his last five bouts, fell to 11-5-2 (7 knockouts).

“At first I wasn’t sure if I was going to come back or not, cause of the jaw injury,” said Smith. “For the second time I broke it. But I started missing it a lot, so here we are. I’m back.”

He added, “I want to fight a champion. That’s what I’m looking for, a world title.”

In the night’s co-feature, rising New England prospect “Action” Anthony Laureano, 138 ¼, of East Hartford, CT, took a six-round unanimous decision over Juan de la Cruz Rodriguez, 139 ½, of Haymarket, VA by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice.

Laureano did everything right, paying attention to the body as much as the head, displayed great combination punching and was the aggressor all night long. However, he found in de la Cruz Rodriguez a young man who refused to submit, a young man who refused to visit the canvas even once. The best Laureano could do was give de la Cruz Rodriguez a bloody nose halfway through the second round.

Laureano impressed with his overall skill, showing signs that he’s one to watch for the future. But de la Cruz Rodriguez, who entered his bout with Laureano with more losses than wins, showed that records can be deceiving. If he was supposed to be an easy mark, he wasn’t. He made Laureano work for his paycheck. He took so many solid punches it was a wonder how he stayed on his feet all night long, and he never backed away from Laureano, not even in the sixth and final round.

With a little less than two minutes to go in the fight, Laureano sent de la Cruz Rodriguez’ mouthpiece with an overhand right. Laureano dominated from start to finish, but de la Cruz Rodriguez was right there in the mix with him all the way.

Laureano upped his record to 8-0 (3 knockouts) while de la Cruz Rodriguez fell to 8-10-1 (6 knockouts).

In other action, heavyweight Cassius Chaney, 246, of New London, CT, registered a first-round stoppage of Elder Hernandez, 250, of Morelia, Mexico after dropping him twice.

A jab-right hand combination created the first knockdown soon after the opening bell. After Hernandez beat the count, he came at Chaney with a mixed attack. Chaney responded with an assault to the head that forced Hernandez to backpedal a couple of steps. It wouldn’t be long before Chaney connected with a hook to the body that resulted in Hernandez dropping to a knee. Chaney, looking frustrated when it was clear Hernandez was going to stay down, said “What? C’mon!” as he gestured for his opponent to get up and fight on.

But he would not get his wish. Referee Steve Willis called a halt to the action at the 2:47 mark. Chaney improved to 13-0 (7 knockouts) while Hernandez fell to 5-3 (3 knockouts).

“I’m ready for a world title fight against the WBO world champion Dogboe. If we face each other, it will be a Fight Of The Year candidate because of our aggressive styles. We both like to go there and expect a war, and at the same time, we are not afraid of it. What better way than to give the fans an intense war? Let’s do it”, said Vicente, who is ranked number 10 in the WBO.

YENIFEL VICENTE

“If I have to fight in Ghana, United States or in England, which is where Dogboe trains, I’m more than available to do it. I still remember the negative comments that the Dogboe team made about the Latinos heading on the Magdaleno fight. That’s additional motivation to fight him. I heard Dogboe is looking for a opponent to fight in December. I’m always available!”, exclaimed Vicente, who trains in Puerto Rico, under the supervision of Freddy Trinidad, and Yoel González at the Caimito Boxing Gym, located in the capital city, San Juan.

YENIFEL VICENTE

Vicente has eight wins in a row by way of knockout, which includes the Knockout of the Year in the Premier Boxing Championship over the favorite and then undefeated Juan “Baby Tito” Domínguez, who was knocked out in the 3rd round.

In his penultimate bout, held in April in Colombia, Vicente was crowned WBO Interim Latino Champion after defeating via 4th round technical knockout the local Walberto Ramos. Last August, Vicente successfully defended his title by knocking out Mexican Andrés García in the second round in Panamá.

Vincente hitting the heavy bag

Vicente is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and managed by Spartan Boxing Club.

Photos by Esdel Palermo

Fernando Gaztambide

Press Spartan Boxing Club

787-598-4273

‘‘MANDATORY’’

STEVENSON vs. GVOZDYK

WBC Light Heavyweight World Championship

December 1 at Vidéotron Centre in Quebec City

TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY

MONTREAL (September 25, 2018) – Fans of boxing, prepare your agenda: World Boxing Council (WBC) and lineal light heavyweight world title fight between the champion Adonis “Superman” Stevenson (29-1-1, 24 KOs) and the mandatory challenger, Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk (15-0-0, 12 KOs), will be held December 1 at Videotron Center in Quebec City.

STEVENSON vs. GVOZDYK

Tickets will be in presale Wednesday and Thursday and general admission go on sale this Friday at Gestev.com.

Tickets, starting at $50.50, taxes and service fees included, will be on sale at Gestev.com and Ticketmaster.ca, as well as at the Champions Boxing Club (514-376-0980), GYM (514-383-0666) or by calling 1-855-790-1245.

The “Mandatory” event will be broadcast in the United States on a major network and in Canada on pay-per-view via Indigo, Bell TV and Shaw TV. More details will be given Oct. 9 during a press conference in Quebec City, attended by all the participants of this exciting boxing card.

“We are very excited to be returning to the Videotron Center for this fifth Superman world championship defense in Quebec City, more than anyone else in the history of boxing,” GYM President Yvon Michel said. “The challenger is talented and seasoned. The danger is present, but the belt will remain with Quebecers! The challenge is colossal, but the show will be solid and the evening fantastic, an appointment not to be missed,”

“The clash between Adonis Stevenson and Oleksandr Govdzyk will be the third world championship fight in the young history of the Videotron Center and the second for champion Adonis Stevenson,” added Martin Tremblay, Chief Operating Officer of Quebecor Sports and Entertainment Group. “Fans from all over Quebec will appreciate the quality of this gala. The Videotron Center occupies an important place in combat sports with its sixth event in 2018,”

“I am very proud to be back in Quebec City for this mandatory title defense and offer the opportunity to American viewers and on the international scene to rediscover the beauties of Quebec City as well as the hospitality and the Latin passion of the Quebec boxing fans,” Stevenson commented. “I know many believe December would be the end of my reign against this young undefeated Olympic medalist. The message I am prepared to send with this fight is: I am still the No. 1 light heavyweight and I still have several chapters to add to my journey as world champion. December 1st at the Videotron Center is a personal invitation to Quebec fans. You will not be let down, I will win by KO!.”

“I am one of the best boxers in the light heavyweight division and the time has come for me to prove it to the rest of you,” Gyozdyk insisted. “The WBC gave me this opportunity and I am thankful for it. Adonis has been in this position too long. My time is now!”

“Oleksandr has been waiting for this opportunity for a very long time,” Gvozdyk noted. “He respects Adonis Stevenson as a fighter, but make no mistake, his time is now. ‘The Nail’ is going to leave Canada as the new WBC light heavyweight champion.”

“The WBC championship bout between Stevenson and Gvozdyk will be among the best fights of the year, proclaimed Top Rank CEO Bob Arum. “It’s a must-see for all boxing fans.”

ADONIS ‘‘SUPERMAN’’ STEVENSON

Recognized as one of the most powerful punchers, pound-for-pound, in the boxing world, Stevenson will attempt to successfully defend his title for the 10th time on December 1st.

In his last outing on May 19 at the Air Canada Center in Toronto, he fought a draw with former WBA light heavyweight and WBC super middleweight world champion, Badou Jack, in a spectacular fight, while Floyd Mayweather Jr watched from ringside.

World champion since his violent knockout over the American Chad Dawson in 2013, “Superman” will try to hammer his mandatory aspirant nicknamed, at the Videotron Center.

OLEKSANDR ‘‘THE NAIL’’ GVOZDYK

Bronze medalist at the London Olympics, Ukrainian-born Gvozdyk moved to Oxnard, California, to begin his professional career in 2014. He has marched forward ever since, racking up 15 wins in 15 bouts, 12 by knockout.

During his last appearance in the ring on March 17 at Madison Square Garden in New York, he defeated Frenchman Mehdi Amar by unanimous decision to become Stevenson’s mandatory challenger, winning the interim light heavyweight WBC title along the way.

Teammates of Vasyl Lomachenko and Oleksandr Usyk, Gvozdyk is a talented and dangerous boxer, as evidenced by his victories by referee stoppage over Yunieski Gonzalez, Isaac Chilemba and Tommy Karpency. In addition, he is now trained by the legendary American trainer and commentator Teddy Atlas.

: @groupeyvonmichel

: @yvonmichelGYM

#GroupeYM

#StevensonGvozdyk

#Mandatory

ABOUT GROUPE YVON MICHEL (GYM)Promoter of ChampionsGroupe Yvon Michel (GYM) was founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel and his associates. The organization’s mission is the development of top level boxers through support to management and especially by direction in competition. In order to achieve its objectives, GYM is active in talent recruitment and event organization, developing major partnerships with Videotron, TVA Sports, Loto-Québec, Mise-O-Jeu, Montreal and Lac Leamy Casinos, RNC Media and the 91.9 Sports, & CO, Imprimerie Bel and Centre Dentaire Lapointe, Rival in addition to cooperating closely with Rixa Promotions. The entire GYM team is actively working with the GYM Foundation Inc. GYM President Yvon Michel was inducted into the Boxing Canada Hall of Fame in April 2017. GYM currently has 3 world champions in its ranks: light heavyweights Adonis Stevenson (WBC), Eleider Alvarez (WBO) and Artur Beterbiev (IBF).

Mercado outlasts Vazquez in classic slugfest

Fight of the Year Candidate being called Best fight in Pennsylvania

Aleem, Madison Powell, Coffie and Jules stay undefeated

Over Half-A-Million views on this incredible night of action, and now can be watched on-demand by:CLICKING HERE

Victor Vazquez and Anthony Mercado

Philadelphia, PA (September 27, 2018) – This past Tuesday night, one of the most thrilling fights in recent memory, Anthony Mercado and Victor Vazquez waged an eight-round war for the ages that saw Mercado overcome a horrible cut over his right eye, a knockdown, and multiple instances where the fight could have been stopped to persevere and somehow comeback to win the fight.

The bout, for which some at ringside were saying it was the best fight in Pennsylvania, headlined a nine-bout card at The Sands Bethlehem Event Center and was promoted by King’s Promotions.

Raeese Aleem

The show was streamed live to a record audience of over 500,000 views on Facebook Fightnight Live. The show can be seen on-demand by CLICKING HERE

Mercado was cut badly over his right in round two from an accidental headbutt. In round three, Mercado landed a hard flurry on the ropes that forced Vazquez into the ropes, and referee Gary Rosato ruled that ropes kept Vazquez from being knocked down and administered an eight-count. Vazquez fought back in round four and landed a couple of booming left hooks that rocked Mercado.

The continued to trade heavy shots at will, which led to some brutal exchanges with each guy landing some vicious power punches. In round six, Vazquez landed some booming shots that had Mercado in trouble for much of the round, One such flurry had Mercado seemingly a punch or two a way from getting stopped. At the end of the round, Vazquez landed a flush left hook to the jaw that put Mercado plummeting to the canvas. Mercado got up just as the bell rang, and he stumbled to the corner. Vazquez went in for the finish in round seven, but Mercado, with blood now covering the whole right side of his face, was able to stabilize himself and work his way back into the fight. Mercado made it all the way back, and was able to box his way to win the decisive eighth round.

Joe Hanks

Mercado, 140.8 lbs of Puerto Rico won by scores of 77-74 and 76-75 twice to raise his mark to 12-5. Vazquez, 137.9 lbs of Yonkers, New York fought a great fight, but now falls to 10-5.

“I just thought of my dad. I thought the fight was close to being stopped. It was not easy, he is a good boxer. I did not feel the cut. I will have to talk to my team, but money talks for a rematch,” said Mercado

Martino Jules

Vazquez said,”It could of went any way. He is a good opponent. He is tough. We both have power. We both came ready for the fighter. Today we are both winners.”

In the co-feature, Raeese Aleem stopped Alcides Santiago at the end of round five of their scheduled six-round super bantamweight bout.

Aleem beat Santiago down, and scored a knockdown in round five.

Pablo Cesar Cano (R) lands a hard right to the jaw of Ruslan Madie

Aleem, 121.9 lbs of Las Vegas, was making his first start under new trainer and former world champion Bones Adams, is now 12-0 with six knockouts. Santiago, 122.6 lbs of Arecibo, PR is 6-3.

Michael Coffie

Joe Hanks stopped Terrance Marbra at 2:54 of round one of their six-round heavyweight bout.

Colby Madison remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Nicoy Clarke in a heavyweight bout.

Clarke fought most of the bout with a cut over his left eye that was caused by a punch.

Madison, 241 lbs of Owings Mills, MD won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55, and is now 7-0-2. Clarke, 211.5 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 2-2.

Good looking prospect Money Powell IV won a six-round unanimous decision over Josue Obando in a middleweight contest.

Powell, 163.1 lbs of Fort Mitchell, AL won by scores of 60-54 twice, and 59-55 to go to 8-0. Obando, 165 lbs of Jalisco, MEX is 16-23-1.

Michael Coffie scored four knockdowns en-roue to a 2nd round stoppage over Curtis Head in a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

Coffie registered the knockdowns evenly as he put Head on the canvas twice in each round, and the bout was stopped at 1:57.

Coffie, 270.5 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 4-0 with three knockouts. Head, 257 lbs of Southfield, MI is 4-3.

Martino Jules thrilled his hometown fans by dropping Felix Sosa in round’s one and three, which paved the way for a four round unanimous decision in a contest featuring undefeated featherweights.

Jules, 124.5 lbs of nearby Allentown, PA won by tallies of 40-34 on all cards, and is now 5-0. Sosa, 124.1 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 1-1.

Kenny Robles dropped Corey Gulley in round two, and finished him at 2:13 of round three from a wicked flurry of punches in a junior welterweight fight scheduled for six-rounds.

Robles, 138.2 lbs of Staten Island, NY is now 4-1 with two knockouts. Gulley, 140.6 lbs of Killeen, TX is 2-3-2.

KING’S PROMOTIONS RETURNS TO SUGARHOUSE CASINO ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9TH. THAT SHOW WILL FOLLOWED UP BY KING’S PROMOTIONS RETURN TO THE SANDS BETHLEHEM EVENT CENTER ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH, DETAILS ON BOTH SHOWS WILL BE ANNOUNCED SHORTLY

Brandon Robinson stops Ernest Amuzu in three rounds in Philadelphia

Williams defeats Grayton in terrific Welterweight battle

Yunusov, Jimenez, Butt, Williams and Tazhibay remain undefeated

Philadelphia, PA (September 17, 2018) -Surging super middleweight Brandon Robinson won his 11th straight bout as he took out Ernest Amuzu in round three of their scheduled eight-round bout that headlined a nine-bout card this past Friday night at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The spectacular show was promoted by King’s Promoted and was streamed live all over the world on Facebook Fight Night Live. -Note–The show can be viewed by clicking here.

Robinson of Upper Darby, PA bided his time until in round three, when he landed a nice body shot that drove Amuzu into the corner. That set up a furious flurry by Robinson. Robinson rocked Amuzu several times until he was defenseless, and the bout was stopped at 2:04.

Robinson is now 11-1 with eight stoppages. Amuzu of Prichard, Alabama is 24-4.

“It was a good fight. Ernest Amuzu came to fight, and he was a worthy opponent. We work hard in the gym and the reward is even better,” said Robinson. “The finish came from a jab, and then I touched the body a couple of times. We started to wear him out, and that was that. A knockout is always great. I want to fight Derrick Webster for the number-five spot in the IBF. It is nothing personal just business. I know that I can beat him.”

In the exciting co-feature, Terrel Williams registered three knockdowns en-route to a ten-round unanimous decision over David Grayton in a welterweight contest.

Williams scored a knockdown in round one from a perfectly placed right hand. A round later, it was another straight right that put the southpaw Grayton the canvas. Garyton began to mount a comeback in the middle rounds as he tried to will himself back into the fight.

In round six, Williams gained back the momentum as yet another right hand sent Grayton down. That knockdown seemed to actually fuel Grayton as he did his best work over the next few rounds. Williams came back to have a good round ten and came home home with the victory by scores of 98-90, 98-89 and 97-92.

Williams of Los Angeles, California is now 17-0. Grayton of Washington. D.C. is 15-3-1.

Three-time Olympian, Anvar Yunusov was impressive as he dropped Angel Monreal twice in round one, and got the stoppage win at 2:39 of that opening frame,

Yunusov scored both of those knockdowns with hard left hands, with the finishing blow being a left that sent Monreal plummeting to the deck.

Yunusov of Tajikistan who now resides in Philadelphia is 5-0 with two knockouts. Monreal of Monterrey, Mexico is 10-11-1.

Alejandro Jimenez won a four-round unanimous decision over Jerrod Miner in a bantamweight bout.

Jimenez of New Hope, PA won by scores of 40-36 on all cards, and is now 3-0. Miner of Philadelphia is 1-2-1.

Keeshawn Williams won a four-round unanimous decision over Farhad Fatulla in a welterweight contest.

Williams was the quicker and more skilled fighter, who flashed a piston jab that cut the left eye of Fatulla. Williams won by 40-36 scores on all cards.

Daiyann Butt remained undefeated by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Anthony Smith in a junior welterweight fight.

Butt of Philadelphia won by scores of 40-36 on all cards, and is now 2-0. Smith of Fresno, California is 1-3.

Yueri Andujar made an impressive pro debut by taking out previously undefeated Crystian Peguero in the 3rd round of their scheduled four-round featherweight bout.

Andujar used his height to land wicked combinations that hurt Peguero throughout the contest.

The fight culminated in round three when Andujar landed a booming uppercut that rocked Peguero. With Peguero hurt, Andujar landed three more crushing shots, and the bout was stopped at 2:06.

Andujar of Reading, PA is 1-0 with one knockout. Peguero of Philadelphia is 2-1.

James Bernadin made a successful pro debut with a 3rd round stoppage over Christopher Burgos in a super featherweight battle.

In round two, Burgos began to bleed under his left eye. In round three, Bernadin landed a right-left combination that was followed by a booming right to the head that dropped Burgos. Burgos got to his feet, but wobbled and the fight was stopped at 2:19.

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA is 1-0 with one knockout. Burgos of Philadelphia is 1-3-1.

Shyngyskhan Tazhibay remained perfect by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Justin Johnson in a welterweight bout.

Tazhibay of Washington, D.C. won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice, and is now 7-0. Johnson of Pittsburgh, took the fight on one day notice is 6-18-6.

KING’S PROMOTIONS WILL BE BACK ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH AT THE SANDS BETHLEHEM EVENT CENTER WITH ANTHONY MERCARDO TAKING ON VICTOR VAZQUEZ IN THE MAIN EVENT. UNDEFEATED STEPHEN FULTON WILL ALSO SEE ACTION ON THE NINE-BOUT CARD

Undefeated Heavyweight Darmani Rock to headline on Saturday, October 6th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

Top lightweight prospect Jeremy Cuevas to take part in co-feature

Brandon Pizarro goes for 12th win

Undefeated Gadwin Rosa, Christian Tapia, & Marcel Rivers in action

Plus the pro debut of Benny Sinakin

Philadelphia, PA (September 17, 2018) – Top Heavyweight prospect Darmani Rock will take part in the eight-round main event on Saturday, October 6th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Also, appearing in the co-feature bout will be rising lightweight prospect Jeremy Cuevas.

The show is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions in association with Roc Nation Sports.

Rock of Philadelphia, who was the number-one amateur heavyweight in the United States and former Youth Amateur champion, has a record of 12-0 with seven knockouts.

The 22 year-old Rock is a two-year professional who has a 1st round stoppage over Carlos Cotto (8-1-1) on his resume. Rock is coming off a six-round unanimous decision win over Marquis Valentine on July 20th in Sloan, Iowa.

This will be Rock’s 3rd appearance in Philadelphia.

Cuevas (10-0, 8 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.

The 22 year-old Cuevas is a two -year professional, who has been recognized as one of the top lightweight prospects in the country. He has stopped his last two opponents, which includes his last bout when he stopped Deo Kizito at The 2300 Arena. This will be Cuevas’s 3rd consecutive and 4th overall fight at The 2300 Arena.

Surging 18 year-old prospect Brandon Pizarro will see action in a six-round bout.

The former Junior Olympic champion has a record of 11-1 with five knockouts.

The Philadelphia native is a two-year professional, and has a win over previously undefeated Abdiel Padilla.

Pizarro, who has won three consecutive bouts, is coming off a 2nd round stoppage over veteran Hector Marengo on August 11th at The 2300 Arena. This will be Pizarro’s 3rd consecutive appearance at The 2300 Arena.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (September 11, 2018) – The stars will be out September 29th as the USA Boxing Alumni Association goes Hollywood.

Past and present amateur boxers are invited to attend an informal meeting of present Alumni Association members, who are encouraged to spread the word to recruit new members – boxers, officials, coaches and fans – about attending the LA gathering on Saturday, Sept. 29 (12-4 p.m. PT), and then joining the USA Boxing Alumni Association.

The inaugural West Coast meeting of the USA Boxing Alumni Association will be at Fortune Gym, 7574 W. Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood (Los Angeles – enter under the blue yawning on backside of Sunset. Blvd.). Street parking is available on Sierra Bonita Avenue, Curson Avenue and Sunset Blvd. Complimentary finger foods and non-alcohol refreshments will be served, beer and wine will be sold.

“USA Boxing Alumni Association is excited to welcome our west coast members for an afternoon of camaraderie,” said Chris Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director. “We’ve lined up an impressive list of amateur boxing alumni who have accomplished great things in and out of the ring. As always, our new members are the engine that drives the Alumni Association, so we encourage all current members to bring guests to sign up and receive their USA Boxing Alumni Association merchandise on site. We look forward to connecting multiple generations of amateur boxing’s finest.”

“I’m very excited about this event in Los Angeles,” added John Scully, USA Boxing Alumni Association board member and fighter liaison. “I’m planning to see at least three different boxers who I battled with in the ring back in the 1980’s. One of the guys I’m hoping to meet there I have not literally seen since the night we fought in October of 1984. In a nutshell, my meeting with him is what these Alumni Association events are all about. The comradery between boxers is going to be on full display September 29th.”

Created to champion a lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — the Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.

The USA Boxing Alumni Association is open to anyone who has a love for boxing and would like to stay connected with amateur boxing. Members are granted access to a wide variety of special events host by the Alumni Association, including Friday evening’s USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception.

If unable to attend the Sept. 29 event, simply register at alumni@usaboxing.org to join the Alumni Association, for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

ABOUT USA BOXING: The mission of USA Boxing shall be to enable United States’ athletes and coaches to achieve sustained competitive excellence, develop character, support the sport of boxing, and promote and grow Olympic style boxing in the United States. The responsibility of USA Boxing is not only to produce Olympic gold, but also oversee and govern every aspect of amateur boxing in the United States.

_____________________

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE scores knockout partnership with Everlast – The Choice of Champions – for 24 Events In 2018-19

Fan-friendly, interactive FREE series with more than 1.6 million fans served now “Powered by Everlast.”

Online: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

NEW YORK (Sept. 19, 2018) – After opening Season II last Friday with nearly 200,000 views to bring its series viewership above 1.6 million, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE today announced a 24-show partnership with Everlast: The Choice of Champions and the preeminent brand in boxing since 1910.

Under the agreement, Everlast becomes the title sponsor of “FIGHTNIGHT LIVE, Powered by Everlast” for all shows during the 2018-19 season and enjoys benefits such as: Broadcast Billboards; “Tale of the Tape” and “Matchup” graphics during the live shows; sponsored interviews; in-venue ring announcer acknowledgements before each fight; between-show social media integration, and much more.

“We are delighted that Everlast – a brand synonymous with boxing – sees value in what FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has accomplished since May of 2017. We’ve had 18 shows originating from New York, Atlantic City, Philadelphia, Boston and New England, Phoenix and America’s Heartland, where more than 300 up-and-coming fighters and eleven different promotions gained an incredible amount of exposure via this exciting, truly social platform. To be able to have several events with more than 150,000 or 200,000 views only scratches the surface, and with Everlast’s partnership, we are truly ready to take FIGHTNIGHT LIVE to the next level here in Season II,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media.

“We are proud to partner with FIGHTNIGHT LIVE. At Everlast we have always believed in supporting people and ideas that break the mold and blaze new trails and FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is doing just that,” said Chris Zoller, Vice President of Marketing and Product Development at Everlast. We’re seeing a shift in how fight sports content is being consumed. Highly engaging content and experiences delivered via emerging channels is the heart of our brand strategy. FNL is the perfect combination of high-quality fight sports content and accessibility.”

Now in its second season, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is the fan-friendly series that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has showcased more than 300 fighters during 18 live event broadcasts since May 2017, and in doing so, the interactive platform has generated the loyal interest of fight fans from across the United States and around the globe, including significant audiences in Mexico, the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, and even fans in South America, Asia and Australia.

Now at more than 1.6 million views for the series, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has continued to deliver impressive numbers throughout its first 18 shows:

Since May 2017, the numbers on the 18-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of 90,001 views per event and more than 1.6 million total views.

The Sept. 2017 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August 2017 CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Sept. 2018 “Card Fit For Kings” from Philadelphia (195,620), the Sept. 2017 CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” (151,253) all logged 150,000 or more views, and collectively the 18-show series has seen a total of 1,620,014 views across all devices.

In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 183,000 collective live post engagements (more than 10,100 per show), including more than 124,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 31,000 comments and more than 10,000 shares.

The Sept. 2017 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” set a new bar with 224,658 views and the Sept. 2017 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Sept. 2017 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves” and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” set a new high-water mark for shares with 2,182.

The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 83,000 followers.

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Fall 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.

About Everlast Worldwide Inc.

The preeminent brand in boxing since 1910, Everlast is the world’s leading manufacturer, marketer and licensor of boxing, MMA and fitness equipment. From legendary champions Jack Dempsey and Sugar Ray Robinson to current superstars Deontay Wilder and Dustin Poirier, Everlast is the brand of choice for generations of world champion professional athletes. Built on a brand heritage of strength, dedication, individuality and authenticity, Everlast is a necessary part of the lives of countless champions. Based in Manhattan, Everlast’s products are sold across more than 75 countries and 6 continents. For more information, visit www.everlast.com.

WHAT: Fans can relive the controversial first fight between lightweight contenders Thomas Mattice and Zhora Hamazaryan, available now in its entirety on SHOWTIME Boxing YouTube channel ahead of the rematch September 28 in the second of back-to-back Fridays of ShoBox: The New Generation action.

In one of the most widely disputed fights of 2018, Mattice (13-0, 10 KOs) kept his undefeated record intact when he overcame a knockdown in the second round to escape with the eight-round split-decision victory over the previously undefeated Hamazaryan (9-1, 6 KOs). Two judges scored the fight 76-75 in favor of Mattice with the third judge scoring it 77-74 in favor of Hamazaryan.

Less than three months after judges in Iowa awarded Mattice what Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood called “the worst decision I’ve ever seen in the history of ShoBox”, Mattice and Hamazaryan will face off in the co-feature of the ShoBox telecast from Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif.

Hamazaryan, who recently returned stateside after an extended stay to be with family and train in his native Armenia, is looking forward to his opportunity to exact revenge.

“I respect Thomas Mattice,” said Hamazaryan, who is currently training with John Pullman and Buddy McGirt. “He fought a good fight last time, but everyone knows I won the fight and he does too. I respect that I got a rematch and we can settle this once and for all.

“My gameplan is to do the same thing I did last time, but just more pressure and aggression. Because of what happened last time, I can’t leave it up to judges. I must get the knockout. If I don’t, then the same thing will happen again and I will get robbed. I can’t have that.”

Mattice, who has watched the July fight multiple times, is hoping to prove that his decision win was no fluke.

“It was important to me to get this rematch so that I can display to the fans the kind of fighter I am and show that I deserved to win the first fight. I’m looking to continue my rise and show the world that I’m the real deal.

“We’re just trying to work on the mistakes we made in the first fight. He may try to do things differently this time, but we’ll adjust and be ready come fight night. It was a controversial decision but I have to remember that at the end of the day I’m a fighter and not a judge. I just have to go out there and fight my fight, and things will be taken care of.”

The September 28 ShoBox is headlined by top undefeated lightweight prospect Devin Haney (19-0, 13 KOs) facing three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos (33-2-2, 21 KOs). The opener will see two undefeated middleweight prospects meet as Cem Kilic (11-0, 7 KOs) and Donnie Marshall (9-0, 6 KOs) face off in the ninth matchup of undefeated prospects of 2018 on ShoBox: The New Generation. The previous Friday, Jon Fernandez (16-0-0, 14 KOs), one of the top prospects in boxing and Sergio Martinez protégé, will face O’Shaquie Foster (13-2, 8 KOs) in the main event of a ShoBox telecast from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

For more information visit www.sho.com/sportsfollow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 77 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

Las Vegas (Sept. 13, 2018): Mexican warrior Pablo “El Demoledor” Cesar Cano (31-7-1, 21 KOs) defeated Kazakhstani boxer Ruslan Madiev (12-1, 5 KOs) via fifth-round technical decision in the scheduled 10-round main event of the Sept. 13 edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas. After a vicious head-butt worsened nasty cut on the left side of Cano’s forehead, the fight was stopped at the end of the fifth round. Cano was awarded the technical decision victory with three scores of 49-46.

Pablo Cesar Cano (R) lands a hard right to the jaw of Ruslan Madiev

“I felt comfortable in there before the cut,” said Pablo Cesar Cano. “We worked hard. It was a good thing that he came out and threw a lot of punches because I took advantage of it. If he wants the rematch, he can get it any time.”“I feel very well,” said Ruslan Madiev. “I wanted to take it slow in the first few rounds and then start to apply more pressure. It was an unfortunate head-butt.” Franchon Crews-Dezurn (4-1, 1 KO) of Baltimore, Maryland captured the WBC Super Middleweight Title by scoring a dominant 10-round unanimous decision win against Maricela Cornejo (12-3, 5 KOs) in tonight’s main event.

Pablo Cesar Cano

“This is for my mom,” said Franchon Crews. “This is the first time, but I know her will and determination wasn’ stronger than mine. There were some rough areas in there, but it’s a learning curve and we did Bilal Akkawy (18-0-1, 14 KOs) of Sydney, Australia scored an eight-round unanimous decision victory against Cristian Olivas (16-3, 13 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico in an eight-round light heavyweight fight. Akkawy won with three scores of 80-71.“I feel good. This was my first fight in the United States,” said Bilal Akkawy. “It’s an honor to fight with Golden Boy Promotions. I really had to stop and enjoy the moment. I could have worked on a few things, but there are no excuses. He was tough. Next time you will see a better Bilal.”Francisco Esparza (8-0-1, 3 KOs) of Las Vegas, Nevada defeated Dihul Olguin (13-11-3, 9 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico via unanimous decision in the first bout of the evening, which was held in the super featherweight division. Esparza won with scores of two scores of 80-72 and 79-73.“I feel good. I did what I had to do to win,” said Francisco Esparza.”He was a tough opponent. I learned to keep my distance. Next time, maybe I’ll pressure a little more. His fight was on the inside, so I threw long punches.”Cano vs. Madiev was a 10-round super lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with 360 Promotions. The event was sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING” and Hennessy, “Never Stop, Never Settle.” The fights took place on Thursday, Sept. 13, 2018 at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas.

Terence Crawford to defend WBO title at the CHI Health Center Omaha in Omaha, Nebraska

Tickets go on sale Tuesday, Sept. 11 at 10 a.m. CSTd

OMAHA, Neb. (Sept. 10, 2018) – Terence “Bud” Crawford will return to the scene of many of his greatest professional triumphs intent on stopping a man who has repeatedly lobbied for a fight. Crawford will make the first defense of his WBO welterweight world title against Jose Benavidez Jr. on Saturday, Oct. 13 at the CHI Health Center Omaha (formerly the CenturyLink Center). Crawford-Benavidez will air live and exclusively on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 10:30 p.m. ET with undercards streaming live in the United States at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+ – the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN.It was Benavidez who challenged Crawford in Corpus Christi, Texas, this past February, accusing him of ducking a potential showdown. Crawford invited Benavidez to “step outside” before cooler heads prevailed. They will settle the score in front of a raucous crowd who will be cheering on their hometown hero.ESPN’s coverage of the event starts Friday, Oct. 12 with a live telecast of the Top Rank on ESPN Crawford vs. Benavidez Jr. Weigh-In. Lineup (ET):

5:00-6:00 p.m., ESPN+ (LIVE, entire card)

5:30-6:00 p.m., ESPN2 (LIVE, Main and Co-Main Events)

9:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; 1:30 a.m.-2:00 a.m., ESPNEWS (repeat)

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets to this world championship event go on sale Tuesday, Sept. 11 at 10 a.m. CST. Priced at $178, $103, $63, and $38, not including applicable fees, tickets can be purchased at the CHI Health Center Omaha box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 800-745-3000, or online at ticketmaster.com.

“The Crawford-Benavidez fight is an old-time grudge match. These are two elite fighters who don’t care for each other, to put it mildly,” said Bob Arum, Top Rank’s founder and CEO. “They will battle each other at a fever pitch. I can’t wait to watch the action.”

“This fight is the fight he has been calling for, and now he will get the chance to see what it’s like to be in the ring with a real champion,” Crawford said. I’ll happily give him his first L.”

“I’ve been wanting this fight for three years. I know I have what it takes to beat him, and I am going to beat him,” Benavidez said. “Crawford has been running his mouth and saying I’m a nobody. I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity.”

Crawford (33-0, 24 KOs) is a three-division world champion, a pound-for-pound elite who was recently named “Fighter of the Year” at the 2018 ESPY Awards. In his first bout of 2018, June 9 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, he defeated defending WBO welterweight champion Jeff Horn via ninth-round TKO. Crawford did not miss a beat against Horn despite a nearly 10-month layoff due to a hand injury. Prior to dominating Horn, Crawford became only the third fighter of the four-belt era to unify all the belts when he knocked out fellow unified 140-pound champion Julius Indongo in the third round. Crawford has drawn a total of 44,360 fans in four bouts at the CHI Health Center Omaha, including nearly 11,000 when he knocked down Yuriorkis Gamboa four times en route to a ninth-round TKO to retain the WBO lightweight title in one of the best fights of 2014. Five months after the Gamboa win, Crawford cruised to a wide unanimous decision against Ray Beltran, who went on to win that title more than three years later. In his most recent CHI Health Center Omaha appearance, Dec. 10, 2016 against John Molina Jr., 11,270 fans packed the building as Crawford battered Molina before stopping him in the eighth round. Crawford is 11-0 with eight knockouts in world title bouts and is ranked by many boxing experts as the world’s best fighter.

Benavidez (27-0, 18 KOs), a former WBA interim super lightweight champion, turned pro in 2010 following a standout amateur career that included a 2009 National Golden Gloves gold medal at 141 pounds. His road to this career-defining fight has been anything but smooth, as he was shot multiple times in an August 2016 incident in his hometown of Phoenix. After a nearly 18-month layoff, Benavidez returned on Feb. 3, 2018 in Corpus Christi with an eighth-round TKO against Matthew Strode. It was before the weigh-in for the Strode bout that Benavidez confronted Crawford. Benavidez last fought on the Crawford vs. Horn undercard, knocking out the previously undefeated Frank Rojas at 1:23 of the opening round.

ESPN+ is the premium multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International (DTCI) segment in conjunction with ESPN. ESPN+ offers fans two exclusive, original boxing programs The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Tuesdays, weekly) and In This Corner (twice monthly). In addition to exclusive Top Rank boxing content, programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and multiple other sports from more than 15 conferences), UFC (beginning in 2019), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby, cricket, new and exclusive documentary films and series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

Dutchover, 20, hails from Midland, Tex., but has relocated to Santa Fe Springs, Calif. to take advantage of the rich sparring readily available to him in the greater Los Angeles area.

“I first came out to Santa Fe Springs the summer before my senior year of high school,” Dutchover said. “That’s when I met my current trainer Danny Zamora. He put me in with world champ Darleys Perez [WBA lightweight]. After that experience, I knew once I turned professional that I would want to live and train in this area.”

To prepare for Lopez, Dutchover has been clocking rounds against current WBA super bantamweight champion Danny Roman. The former cross country standout at Midland High School credits the elite level sparring for his rapidly evolving game.

“You have to be patient against guys like Danny Roman,” said Dutchover, who is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. “He is too skilled for you to walk in there and think you are going to lay gloves on him. That’s been my biggest growth area. Just learning how to settle into a patient rhythm and capitalize on angels once I see them.”

Dutchover’s patience was on display in his latest outing, a second round, one-punch destruction of Sergio Martinez in July.

“I was setting him up from the first round,” Dutchover said. “He was leaving himself open and throwing lazy jabs. I sat on the right moment and delivered a right hand that ended his night.”

For his fight against the little known Lopez, Dutchover will rely on the experience he’s built up to this point.

“He has a good record on paper, but I know he hasn’t fought the level of talent that I have,” remarked Dutchover. “I’m heading into the fight with a lot of confidence.

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE TO OPEN SEASON II ON FRIDAY, SEPT. 14 WITH AN ACTION-PACKED PHILLY CARD FIT FOR KINGS

Fan-friendly, interactive FREE series with nearly 1.5 million fans served looks to continue momentum in year two.

NEW YORK (Sept. 10, 2018) – After a 17-show inaugural campaign that attracted 84,000 views per event and nearly 1.5 million views for the series, Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE next turns the corner to year two, looking to build upon its meteoric rise. Season II of the interactive and free fight series opens in the Fighting City of Philadelphia on Friday, Sept. 14, with an action-packed King’s Boxing card live from 2300 Arena.

The fan-friendly series that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience showcased more than 300 fighters during 17 live event broadcasts in its first 12 months. In doing so, the interactive platform has generated the loyal interest of fight fans from across the United States and around the globe, including significant audiences in Mexico, the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, and even fans in South America, Asia and Australia.

“We are extremely proud of what FIGHTNIGHT LIVE accomplished since May 2017. We’ve had 17 shows originating from New York, Boston, Atlantic City, Philadelphia, New England, Phoenix and America’s Heartland, where many different promotions gained an incredible amount of exposure via this exciting, truly social platform. To be able to have several events where more than 150,000 people have tuned in only scratches the surface on the market interest for these events, and we are ready to take FIGHTNIGHT LIVE to the next level in year two,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media.

“Beyond the numbers, we’re really pleased with the way the shows have been presented and produced,” Fratto continued. “We’ve been able to showcase more than 300 up-and-coming fighters to fight fans all over the world, and help them expand their bases. And we’ve been able to invite our viewers to be part of the action by fostering real-time interaction between our broadcasters and viewers on the fight activity, the decisions and the knockouts; it’s the next-best thing to having a ringside seat.”

“King’s Promotions is very excited to be working with Mark and the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE team,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Boxing, the eleventh promoter FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has showcased over its first 18 shows. “I believe we will bring the best-quality boxing to FIGHTNIGHT LIVE.”

Now at more than 1.4 million views for the series, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has continued to deliver impressive numbers throughout its rookie season, which included seven live shows in the first five months of 2018:

Over the first 11 months of Season I programming, the numbers on the 17-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of 83,714 fight fans tuning in per event and more than 1.4 million fans served.

The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Sept. CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) and the March 17 Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” (150,001) all logged 150,000 or more views, and collectively the 17-show series has seen a total of more than 30,000 total hours of Facebook video consumed by 1,423,132 users across all devices.

In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 173,000 collective live post engagements (more than 10,200 per show), including more than 116,000 “likes” or “loves,” almost 30,000 comments and nearly 10,000 shares.

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE broadcasts are viewed by 76 percent men, 24 percent women. The top demographic is comprised ofmales ages 25-34, which encompasses approximately 30.0 percent of the audience, on average.

The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” set a new bar with 224,658 views and the Sept. 15-16 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Feb. 10 Hard-Hitting Promotions “Philly Fight Night” show stands out individually with 3,421 live hours of content viewed, while the Sept. 15 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves” and the March 17 Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” set a new high-water mark for shares with 2,182.

The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 79,000 fans and more than 82,000 followers. And Facebook itself has taken notice – the world’s No. 1 social network recently profiled FIGHTNIGHT LIVE on its “Success Stories” media blog, noting the series’ use of industry best practices for production and interactivity: https://www.facebook.com/facebookmedia/success-stories/fightnight

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Fall 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

Atlantic City, NJ (September 5, 2018) -This afternoon at 12 PM ET, Rising Star Promotions will stage a media day in advance of Boardwalk Boxing: Round 3, that will take place this Saturday night at The Showboat Hotel.

In the main event, Atlantic City rivals, Antowyan Aikens (13-4-1, 1 KO)and DeCarlo Perez (16-6-1, 5 KOs) will meet for the New Jersey State Super Middleweight title that will take place this Saturday night at The Bourbon Roominside the Showboat Hotel.

In the six-round co-feature, it will be a battle of New Jersey based junior welterweights as John Bauza (10-0, 5 KOs) of North Bergen takes on Rashad Bogar (4-7-1, 2 KOs) of Newark.

BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI – Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame President Scott R. Burt put his Belfast, New York, landmark squarely in the World’s limelight last weekend as he was center stage of the Mississippi Coastal Coliseum’s Main Event to present Australia’s Rowdy Bec Rawlings with the coveted Police Gazette’s Diamond Belt. Burt was named the sole caretaker of America’s Oldest Most-Sought After belt in 2016. “This is the first time the belt has been ringside in 129 years” stated Burt “It was last won the squared circle by the Great John L. Sullivan in 1889 in Richburg, Mississippi, in the most famous bareknuckle fight of its era; a fight Sports Illustrated recently called “The Outlaw Brawl That Started It All.” Sullivan, who trained in William Muldoon’s barns here in Belfast for this fight, now owned by Burt, won that 1889 fight in 2 hours 16 minutes outside in 104 degrees weather. The fight lasted 75 rounds and saw then Champion Jake Kilrain not able to come out for round 76. Both fighters were arrested afterwards because bareknuckling was illegal then.

The State of Wyoming was the first state ever to legalize bareknuckle fighting, and that happened just a couple months ago. Mississippi was the second, with others soon to follow. “Because of the historical connection to Mississippi” stated Burt, “I wanted to wait ’til it was legalized in Mississippi to offer the belt. It was last awarded here in 1889 by then Police Gazette Publisher Richard K. Fox. His presentation was illegal, mine legal.” At the pre-fight press conference, where media from around the World gathered to hear Burt explain the sport’s history, he dubbed Saturday’s fight as “The Legal Fight That Legitimizes It All” and the media ran with that, many not only repeating his words but also vowing to venture to Belfast in the near future to visit Sullivan’s training barns firsthand. These barns now house the World’s only Hall of Fame dedicated to the bare knuckle pioneers. “What a fight Bec Rawlings and Britain Hart put on for the spectators; it can’t get much closer that a split decision; a fight that both the Police Gazette and I didn’t mind at all waiting 129 years for” said Burt.

On left is Champion Bec Rawlings, Scott Burt in middle, Challenger Britain Hart on right

October 20th sees Burt returning to Biloxi to present the American Heavyweight belt to the winner of the Sam Shewmaker and AJ Adams fight in the finals of a tournament that started in Wyoming, and the World Diamond title to either defending 72-0 Reigning Champion Bobby Gunn or his yet-to-be-named challenger. Burt bestowed the honor to Gunn in 2016 based on his 2011 successful Indian reservation fight, but on October 20 the belt will be ringside, and Burt once again will be center stage to present, and to remind the World of the massive treasure his small, proud town of Belfast holds. “I love being an ambassador for Allegany County and especially for Belfast, New York” stated Burt in closing. Note: Next scheduled tour of the famous barns in Belfast is Saturday September 8 at 10am, is $10 per person, and will be personally given by Scott.

On left is Champion Bec Rawlings, Scott Burt in middle, Challenger Britain Hart on right

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.

Las Vegas (August 30, 2018) – Current IBF Welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. has confirmed that that he will appear, have a booth and hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 4th Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday September 15, 2018 from 10am to 5pm, during Mexican Independence Day weekend. The Boxing Expo will also coincide with the highly anticipated rematch between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez vs Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Spence Jr. will make his 1st appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and also have merchandise for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this Boxing Superstar and one of the top Pound for Pound best Boxer in the world at his ERROL SPENCE JR. and MAN DOWN PROMOTIONS Booth. More info at: http://esjthetruth.com/

About Errol Spence Jr.As an amateur Spence Jr. won three consecutive United States national championships and represented the U.S. at the 2012 Olympics, where he reached the quarter-finals; all in the welterweight division. As a professional, Spence Jr. has held the IBF welterweight title since 2017. He traveled to Sheffield, England, in May 2017, where he dethroned Brook before 27,000 Brits. Spence Jr. scored 10th-and final-round knockdowns of Brook, who suffered a broken orbital bone in his severely swollen left eye. In Brook, Spence Jr. defeated a man who dethroned Porter and became the first American to earn a title from an English champion on foreign soil since 2008 when Tim Bradley upset Junior Witter in Nottingham for a 140-pound title.

As of Today, Spence Jr. is ranked as the world’s 8th best active boxer, pound for pound, by The Ring magazine; he is also ranked as the world’s best active welterweight by the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board, and second by The Ring and BoxRec.

About Box Fan ExpoBox Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet-and- greet boxing superstars of today, current and former world champions, legends of the sport and other boxing celebrities. Fans can expect to experience various interactions such as autograph and photos sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, pictures with the Ring Card Girls, Live DJ Music, chance to win prizes, purchase merchandise and memorabilia from different booths Exhibitors, “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”. You won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!

Exhibitors such as boxing gear, apparel, new equipment’s, energy drinks, alcohol, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans, media and the boxing industry.

Throughout the next few weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth,

Mercado of Arecibo, Puerto Rico has a record of 11-4 with nine knockouts.

The 24 year-old is a six-year professional, who won his first 10 bouts. Mercado holds a 3rd round stoppage over previously undefeated Tyrone Crawley, Jr. (7-0) on March 2nd. In his last bout, Mercado dropped an eight-round unanimous decision to undefeated Mykal Fox on May 11th in Philadelphia.

Vazquez of Yonkers, New York has a record of 10-4 with three knockouts.

The 22 year-old Vazquez is a four-year professional, and has built a reputation as being an upset specialist.

Vazquez has wins over Bievenido Diaz (2-0), Jerome Conquest (6-1), Ricardo Garcia (14-0) and David Gonzales (8-2-2). In his last bout, Vazquez was stopped by Josue Vargas on April 21st in Brooklyn.

In a 10-round co-feature, undefeated featherweight Stephen Fulton will see action against an opponent.

Fulton of Philadelphia has a record 13-0 with six knockouts.

The 24 year-old Fulton has showed a willingness to take on all comers as evidenced by wins by his wins over Sam Rodriguez (3-0), Joshua Greer , Jr. (3-0-1), Adalberto Zorilla (6-0), Luis Rosario (8-0-1), Adam Lopez (8-0), & and his bout when he took out Jesus Ahumada on June 16th in Frisco, Texas.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $50, $75 and $100, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

PITTSBURGH – August 29, 2018 – Chris Middendorf’s Victory Boxing Promotions has signed under-the-radar amateur Kiante Irving to a promotional deal. The 24 year-old middleweight is set to make his professional debut this Sunday in West Virginia.

A 6’3″ middleweight, Irving heads into Sunday’s debut with a National Golden Gloves Championship under his belt, having topped the 165-pound division in the 2018 tournament. Despite a slew of state and national titles under his belt, Irving began boxing late, compared to his peers.

He was 16 when he walked into Tom Yankello’s gym, having been drawn to the squared circle after being unable to find his niche in other sports. Raised by a single mom, boxing was an outlet for Irving, and served as an escape from the poverty and stress that ensconced his home life. It soon became clear that boxing would long be a part of his future.

A humble spirit, Irving kept his head down and his eye on the ball through various family traumas that included an eviction and his brother’s near-fatal battle with Chrohn’s Disease. His younger brother, whom he credits as an inspiration and role model, survived the brush with death to become a firefighter. Irving hopes to use his time in the ring to boost awareness of the disease, and to seize the opportunity to live out his dreams, much like his brother has done in recent years.

After his Golden Gloves Victory, Irving’s trainer Tom Yankello, and his brother and co-manager Mark Yankello, along with Irving, came to the decision that it was time to join the professional ranks. The two managers, operating under the banner Tom Yankello Boxing, Inc., connected with boxing promoter Chris Middendorf and Victory Boxing Promotions. Middendorf, who has helped build the careers of many of today’s world champions, seized the opportunity to work with Irving and the Yankellos.

“I am very excited to add Kiante to Victory Boxing’s stable,” said Middendorf. I had the pleasure of doing a series of shows in Pittsburgh with welterweight Sammy Vasquez, culminating in an ESPN and then a ShowBox show, and a series of events at Consol Energy Center [now the PPG Arena.] I can’t wait to be back in Pittsburgh, promoting another top prospect. It really is a tremendous sports town, and they really come out to support their local athletes.”

Middendorf was complimentary of the Yankello Brothers. “I have known his trainer and co-manager, Tom and Mark Yankello, respectively, by reputation for many years, and have enjoyed working with them. When Mark first spoke to me about Kiante, I knew immediately that I wanted to work with the Yankellos and promote Kiante Irving. With his stellar amateur career, he is ready to be a pro.”

The future looks bright (and busy) for Irving. “I plan to build and move Kiante the same way that I moved Ed Brown and Jaron Ennis. I have promised him a minimum of eight fights in his first year, and I know we will do more. He is a gifted athlete and it is going to be something to watch him develop into one of the top middleweights.”

For his part, Tom Yankello is excited about the young pugilist’s future with Middendorf and Victory Boxing Promotions. “I am very pleased with Victory Boxing Promotions. I have known Chris for many years, and he has a great resume and has been involved with building the careers of elite boxers such as Terence Crawford, Leo Santa Cruz, and Nonito Donaire. We know we’re in good hands, and that Chris knows how to move and develop Kiante.”

“I’m just excited to get my pro career moving,” said Irving of the signing. “My managers are confident, and I’m confident that we’re going to be successful under the Victory Boxing banner, and we will be getting right to work.”

Irivng makes his professional debut this Sunday at Mountaineer Casino Racetrack & Resort, versus Philadelphia’s Vincent Burkhalter. Tickets are available at www.mademenboxing.com.

Thabiso Mchunu – Thomas Oosthuizen Video Pewview

KlowdTV to Air Live & Exclusively in the USMchunu v. Oosthuizen

Former world title challenger Thabiso Mchunu takes on Thomas Oosthuizen in a 12-round cruiserweight bout on

THIS SATURDAY,

September 1st LIVE on KlowdTV AT 1:30 PM ET / 10 :30 AM PT

LAS VEGAS, NV. – August 30th, 2018 – Below are is the preview video for the cruiserweight main event between Thabiso Mchunu and Thomas Oosthuizen that will be streamed THIS SATURDAY live on KlowdTV beginning at 1:30 PM ET / 10:30 AM PT

Fight Preview – Thabiso Mchunu vs Thomas Oosthuizen

On Saturday, September 1st, KlowdTV will present a battle between highly regarded cruiserweights, Thabiso Mchunu and Thomas Oosthuizen in a 12-round bout from The Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, South Africa.

Thomas Oosthuizen vs Thabiso Mchunu

KlowdTV is a 24/7 live streaming service that has over 32 live channels and 50 music channels.

Former world title challenger Thabiso Mchunu takes on Thomas Oosthuizen in a 12-round cruiserweight bout on Saturday, September 1st LIVE on KlowdTV

LAS VEGAS, NV. – August 28th, 2018 – Below are preview videos for the main undercard bouts that will take place underneath a highly anticipated cruiserweight bout between Thabiso Mchunu and Thomas Oosthuizen that will be streamed THIS SATURDAY

On Saturday, September 1st, KlowdTV will present a battle between highly regarded cruiserweights, Thabiso Mchunu and Thomas Oosthuizen in a 12-round bout from The Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, South Africa.

The southpaw from Salinas, Calif. hammered Gonzalez with accurate jabs and punishing left hands. In nearly every round, Villa, 21, rocked Gonzalez on his heels with a variety of punches from all sorts of angles.

Gonzalez, despite his experience in high profile fights, was unable to muster any kind of attack. He nearly went down in the fifth when Villa cracked him with a body shot. Scores: 80-72, 79-73 twice.

The southpaw from Salinas, Calif. hammered Gonzalez with accurate jabs and punishing left hands. In nearly every round, Villa, 21, rocked Gonzalez on his heels with a variety of punches from all sorts of angles.

Gonzalez, despite his experience in high profile fights, was unable to muster any kind of attack. He nearly went down in the fifth when Villa cracked him with a body shot. Scores: 80-72, 79-73 twice.

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.

Las Vegas (August 28, 2018) – Two division world champion Andre “SOG” Ward has confirmed that that he will have a booth and interact with the fans at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 4th Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday September 15, 2018, during Mexican Independence Day weekend.

Ward will make his First appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing autographs and also have merchandise for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this boxing superstar and the former #1 Pound for Pound best Boxer in the world at the SON OF GOD Apparel Booth for more info go to: http://andresogward.com/

About Andre WardAndre Ward is an Olympic gold medalist and former super middleweight and light heavyweight weight world champion. He retired with an undefeated record in September of 2017 and held multiple world titles in two weight classes, including the unified WBA (Super), WBC, Ring magazine, and lineal super middleweight titles between 2009 and 2015; and the unified WBA, IBF, WBO, and Ring light heavyweight titles between 2016 and 2017. During his reign as light heavyweight champion, Ward was ranked as the world’s best active boxer, pound for pound, by The Ring magazine and the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board (TBRB), as well as the world’s best active boxer in the division by The Ring, the TBRB, and BoxRec.

As an amateur, Ward won a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 2004 Olympics and turned professional later that year. He rose to worldwide prominence and entered the Super Six World Boxing Classic tournament in 2009, where he won the WBA (Super) super middleweight title from Mikkel Kessler in the opening group stage. In 2011, Ward defeated WBC champion Carl Froch in the tournament final to unify the titles, as well as winning the vacant Ring and lineal titles. That same year, Ward was named Fighter of the Year by The Ring and the Boxing Writers’ Association of America. He later won The Ring’s Comeback of the Year award in 2016.

The highly anticipated bout between “SOG” Ward versus Sergey Kovalev to determine who was the best light heavyweight in the world lived up to its billing as the two battled on November 19th, 2016 for 12 hard fought rounds at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Ward battled back from an early knockdown to take over the bout and win a unanimous decision victory and hand Kovalev his first professional defeat. Fans and pundits alike clamored for a rematch and Ward granted their wish. The two met a second time on June 17, 2017 at Mandalay Bay to once again settle the score and Ward ensured that all questions were answered with a definitive eight round TKO to retain his light heavyweight titles.

About Box Fan ExpoBox Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet-and- greet boxing superstars of today, current and former world champions, legends of the sport and other boxing celebrities. Fans can expect to experience various interactions such as autograph and photos sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, pictures with the Ring Card Girls, Live DJ Music, chance to win prizes, purchase merchandise and memorabilia from different booths Exhibitors, “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”. You won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!

Exhibitors such as boxing gear, apparel, new equipment’s, energy drinks, alcohol, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans, media and the boxing industry.

Throughout the next few weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth,

IMPORTANT NOTE: PRIORITY FOR CREDENTIALS IS GIVEN TO MEDIA OUTLETS THAT ARE INCLUDING BOX FAN EXPO COVERAGE IN YOUR PRESS RELEASES, STORIES, SOCIAL MEDIA, BLOGS AND FEATURE NEWS AS OF TODAY AND THE DAYS LEADING UP TO THE EVENT (PLEASE SEND US LINKS OF COVERAGE). WE WILL HAVE MORE ANNOUNCEMENTS OF BOXING CELEBRITIES AND ATTENDEE’S IN THE COMING DAYS. THANK YOU

Media Credentials are to be picked up at table outside of Bourbon Room beginning at 6 PM

Rising Star Promotions would like to thank the following Sponsors:

_________________________________

Brandon Adams Journey on The Contender begins Tonight on EPIX®

PHILADELPHIA / LOS ANGELES – AUGUST 23, 2018 – Middleweight Brandon Adams will be featured on The Contender that will begin Tomorrow Night, August 24th on EPIX® at 10 PM ET/PT.

Adams, 17-2 with 12 knockouts fights out of Los Angles, California was finalist in the Boxcino Middleweight and Junior Middleweight tournaments in 2014 and 2015.

Adams will attempt to come through in the 16-man competition that in previous years has sprung fighters like Sergio Mora and Cornelius Bundrage to world titles.

About MGM Television

MGM Television is a leading producer and global distributor of premium content for television and digital platforms, with distribution rights to original productions and a robust catalog of television episodes and feature film titles including such premiere entertainment franchises as James Bond, Rocky, Stargate and The Hobbit trilogy. Current scripted and unscripted projects include Fargo (FX); Vikings (HISTORY); The Handmaid’s Tale (Hulu); Get Shorty (EPIX); The Voice (NBC); Survivor (CBS); Shark Tank (ABC); Teen Wolf (MTV); Steve Harvey’s FUNDERDOME (ABC); Beat Shazam (FOX); Signed (VH1); Lucha Underground (The El Rey Network); and through its distribution entity, Orion TV Productions, the syndicated daytime courtroom series Lauren Lake’s Paternity Court and Couples Court with The Cutlers. In addition, MGM owns Evolution Media, the innovative unscripted television producers of The Real Housewives of Orange County, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Vanderpump Rules, Vanderpump Rules: Jax and Brittany Take Kentucky, and Sweet Home Oklahoma (Bravo); Botched (E!); Bug Juice (Disney Channel) and Growing Up Supermodel (Lifetime).MGM’s television programming regularly airs in more than 100 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

About EPIX

EPIX, an MGM company, is a premium pay television network, delivering the latest movie releases and biggest classic film franchises, plus original programming including series, documentaries, and comedy specials – all available on TV, on demand, online and across devices. Launched in October 2009, EPIX became profitable in its first year of existence and is now available nationwide to 70 million homes through cable, telco, satellite and emerging digital distribution platforms. A pioneer in the development and proliferation of “TV Everywhere,” EPIX was the first premium network to provide multi-platform access to its content online at EPIX.com and to launch on Xbox, PlayStation®, Android phones and tablets, and Roku® players. EPIX is also available across hundreds of consumer devices including Apple TV, iPhone and iPad, Amazon Fire TV, TiVo, Chromecast, and Android TV, delivering more movies than any other network with thousands of titles available for streaming. For more information about EPIX, go to www.EPIX.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHd (http://www.twitter.com/EpixHD) and on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/EPIX), YouTube (http://youtube.com/EPIX), Instagram (http://instagram.com/EPIX) and Snapchat @EPIXTV.

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.

Las Vegas (August 23, 2018) – 4-Time world champion Abner Mares has confirmed that he will appear, and hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 4th Annual Box Fan Expo that will take place on Saturday September 15, 2018 from 10am to 5pm, during Mexican Independence Day weekend. The Boxing Expo will also coincide with the highly anticipated rematch between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez vs Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Mares will make his 2nd appearance at this years’ Expo, at the adidas booth from 10.30am to 12pm where he will be signing gloves, photos and have merchandise for fans to enjoy. Boxing fans will also have a great opportunity to take pictures with this Boxing Star, who recently had an amazing performance this past June versus Leo Santa Cruz in a very close and competitive rematch at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. For more info on adidas boxing go to: (www.usboxing.net)

About Abner MaresMares who was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico is a Mexican-American professional boxer who formerly held the WBA (Regular) Featherweight Championship Title. Mares is a four-time world champion in three weight classes. Some of Mares most notable and exciting fights were against top level fighters, such as Vic Darchinyan, Joseph Agbeko, Anselmo Moreno, Daniel Ponce De Leon, Jhonny Gonzalez, Leo Santa Cruz and Jesus Cuellar from whom he won the WBA title on December 10th, 2016. His next Mega fight is rumored to be facing the undefeated and Super featherweight world champion Gervonta Davis.

About Box Fan ExpoBox Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet-and- greet boxing superstars of today, current and former world champions, legends of the sport and other boxing celebrities. Fans can expect to experience various interactions such as autograph and photos sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, pictures with the Ring Card Girls, Live DJ Music, chance to win prizes, purchase merchandise and memorabilia from different booths Exhibitors, “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”. You won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!

Exhibitors such as boxing gear, apparel, new equipment’s, energy drinks, alcohol, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans, media and the boxing industry.

Throughout the next few weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth,

IMPORTANT NOTE: PRIORITY FOR CREDENTIALS IS GIVEN TO MEDIA OUTLETS THAT ARE INCLUDING BOX FAN EXPO COVERAGE IN YOUR PRESS RELEASES, STORIES, SOCIAL MEDIA, BLOGS AND FEATURE NEWS AS OF TODAY AND THE DAYS LEADING UP TO THE EVENT (PLEASE SEND US LINKS OF COVERAGE). WE WILL HAVE MORE ANNOUNCEMENTS OF BOXING CELEBRITIES AND ATTENDEE’S IN THE COMING DAYS. THANK YOU.

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The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame
2018 Induction Weekend

Story and Photos by John and Alex Rinaldi

“No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.” – Calvin Coolidge

No better quote explains the inductees every year into the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame. This year was the FHBOF’s 10th year anniversary, and, as usual, they inducted a group of worthy individuals.

The inductees in the TRAINER/MANAGER group were: Patrick Burns and Jorge Rubio.

The inductees in the PROMOTER group was Joe Scheafer.

FBHOF 2018 Lemuel Nelson

The inductees in the MEDIA group were Edwin Pope, Rene Giraldo and Tom Archdeacon.

The inductees in the PARTICPANT group were Don Kahn, Murray Gaby and Johnny Torres.

Rounding out the 2018 inductees were those in the OFFICIAL/COMMISSION group that included Don Balas, Bernard Soto and Rocky Young.

The weekend was held from June 22-24 at the Westshore Grand Hotel in Tampa, Florida.

FBHOF 2018 DERRICK GAINER

The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend Celebration offers a lot of fun and activities for boxing fans. Besides being able to get up close and personal with each inductees for photos and autographs, there was plenty for boxing aficionados to enjoy. On Friday night beginning at 7:30 there was a thrilling night of amateur boxing. Saturday at 10 AM opened up with fist castings with the inductees, memorabilia for sale and display, signings, autographs and wonderful Florida Boxing Hall of Fame items to purchase.

After the Saturday afternoon festivities were completed. Most ventured back to their rooms or the hotel pool until the evening, which was when the Saturday Night Banquet took place with guest speaker Steve Yerrid.

On Sunday the morning began at 8:30 with the Breakfast of Champions buffet breakfast and wrapped up at 11 AM with the Formal Induction Ceremony. Afterwards, everyone on hand was treated with an incredible Florida Boxing Hall of Fame cake and coffee donated by Alessi Bakery to enjoy.

The Mission Statement of the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame is: To honor former boxers and those who have contributed to boxing, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations as set forth herein. To encourage the membership to be of service to God and benevolent to others. To promote the sport of boxing. To assist within its means ill or disabled veteran boxers who are in need or their families. To further the general welfare of the youth of the community with a special emphasis on those whose social and economic conditions indicate need for assistance. To cooperate with all authorities and agencies in the prevention of juvenile delinquency. To establish a permanent Boxing Hall of Fame museum in Tampa, Florida. The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame is a public Charity.

FBHOF 2018 DERRICK GAINER FIGHT POSE

Besides honoring fighters and those connected with boxing, the FBHOF provides scholarships (The Don Hazelton Scholarship) and promotes a “Knockout Illiteracy” Campaign which encourages reading to children.

Credit must be given to Walter “Butch” Flansburg, who is the President of the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame and the work of his tireless wife Kathy Flansburg. Others who work with the FBHOF are Hall of Fame announcer Bob Alexander (Media/Public Relations), John Daddono (Fund-raising) and Dr. Mel Jurado (Corporate Governance).

“After being here for ten years, this is a milestone for the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame. It is amazing. We got some great people here that wanted to help us and get things together,” stated Butch Flansburg.

It takes a herculean effort to run the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame with all the philanthropy and boxing work. The FBHOF is currently undergoing plans for a museum building and has been on display at the Tampa Bay History Center.

The induction ceremony is an enjoying program with the excellent Bob Alexander handling the Master of Ceremonies duties. Alexander is already a member of the FBHOF (Class of 2010) and is such a marvelous announcer that his descriptions of each inductee can bring tears to one’s eyes. Alexander weaves a colorful story of each inductee that gives the audience and insight into their careers. Bob is the best in the business.

Each inductee is presented with a wonderful FBHOF ring and a certificate by Butch Flansburg.

Christy Martin

Highlighted are some of the inductees of the 2018 Class into the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame.

Christy Martin was the lone female inductee in 2018. Due to her gutsy boxing skill and walloping punches, along with the exposure provided by the legendary promoter Don King, Christy single handedly pushed female boxing into respectability among boxing fans. Thanks to Don King, Christy, of Bluefield, West Virginia, whose father worked in the coal mines, was nicknamed “The Coal Miner’s Daughter” in reference to the classic Loretta Lynn country song.

The boxing Twins with Cornelius Boza-Edwards

Martin began her career in Bristol, Tennessee on September 9, 1989 and went 19-1-1 (14 KO’s) before Don King began placing her on the undercard of his championship fight shows. Christy’s biggest exposure to fans began when King had Martin fighting on the bills featuring the popular headliner Mike Tyson. She TKO’d Erica Schmidlin at the Cores States Spectrum in Philadelphia, PA, on the night when Tyson defeated Buster Mathis, Jr. on December 16, 1995.

On August 23, 1997, Christy made her debut at the fabled Madison Square Garden on the undercard featuring headliners Felix Trinidad, Ricardo Lopez, William Joppy and Wilfredo Vazquez. Christy outpointed Isra Girgrah before a packed house.

Christy kept on fighting on the undercards of championship fights, plus headlined some shows of her own. Her biggest fight was her victory over Mia St. John, another popular female boxer at the time, in the main event at the Silverdome in Pontiac, MI, on December 6, 2002.

The win over St. John launched Christy into a female superfight against Laila Ali for the IBA World Female Super Middleweight Title at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, MS, in her next fight on August 23, 2003. Ali, the daughter of the immortal Muhammad Ali, 162, was naturally bigger than Christy, 35, who though weighed in at 159 for the fight, usually fought as a welterweight. The bigger and younger Ali, 25, jumped on Martin right from the start and battered away with both fists. In the third, Christy was dropped to her knees and in Round 4 she was sent again to the canvas and counted out at the 0:28 mark.

“I usually box, but I had to jump on her,” said Ali. “I’m definitely stronger than her. Christy is tough, she’s definitely tough. She cracked me, but she didn’t hurt me.”

The loss over Ali, plus her advancing age had taken its toll as she went 3-3-1 in her next seven fights. Christy managed to capture lightning in a bottle when she captured a majority win over Dakota Stone for the vacant WBC World Female Super Welterweight Championship at the Mohegan Sun Grandstand in Syracuse, NY, on September 2, 2009.

Fist castings of Hall of Famers

Christy lost her next two fights before retiring in 2012 with an impressive 49-7 (31 KO’s) record. She currently runs Christy Martin Promotions, where she promotes boxing shows in North Carolina.

“This is a great honor to be inducted into the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame. After 23 years in boxing, for somebody to take notice, is great,” said Martin. “My love of boxing has never wavered, which is why I am promoting boxing events in North Carolina and hope to also promote soon in Florida. Thank you to Don King for giving me the chance to fight on his big shows, especially those with Mike Tyson. I have to applaud Mike for not saying, ‘I don’t want a woman to fight on my undercard.’ He embraced it and we still keep in touch to this day.”

Johnny “The Ghetto Blaster” Williams was born in Bradenton, Florida on January 30, 1970. Johnny was a sports star in High School playing baseball, basketball, track and football. He has three cousins that made it all the way to the NFL, where they won six Super Bowl rings between them! With all his high school sports, Johnny also managed to earn a black belt in Tae Kwan Do. In 1989 Williams took up boxing and won the 1989 Sunshine State Games in the 165-pound Novice Class, and later the Florida State Sunshine Games in the 165-pound Open Class.

After only three amateur fights, Williams decided to join the pro ranks on July 30, 1992 and defeated Anthony Salerno at the Hyatt Regency in Tampa, Florida.

From then on, Williams became one of the top middleweights of the era and he TKO’d Donnie Herring on April 29, 1994 to capture the USA Florida State Middleweight Title.

He finally earned a shot at the WBO middleweight championship on June 28, 1997 against the talented and undefeated champion Lonnie Bradley at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, NV. Bradley, 160, was making the 6th defense of his laurels and was a dangerous champion. Although Williams, 159 ½, put up a good showing, he just could not handle the jolting blows of Bradley and was TKO’d at 0:45 of Round 8.

That was Williams’ only shot at world title honors and he eventually retired in 2001 with a respectable 20-7 (12 KO’s) record.

Johnny later became a USA certified coach and is currently helping kids get off the streets and into the gym.

“We have no future without the kids,” said Williams. “The kids, if we do not raise them right and respectable, there is no future. What I do in boxing is about the kids and to show them how to be a man. Getting an education, choose boxing, or if you don’t choose boxing, just choose something else and be the best. I wear boxing on my sleeve. I want to thank the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame and everyone for this moment.”

Cornelius Boza-Edwards was a terrific fighter who fought regularly on network television and always provided fans with a thrilling fight no matter if he won or lost. Boza-Edwards was born on May 27, 1956 in Kampala, Uganda and made his way to the United Kingdom in 1976 and KO’d Barry Price in his first fight at the Hilton Hotel in Mayfair, London on December 13, 1976.

Cornelius eventually settled into residency in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Over the next four years, Boza-Edwards went 27-1 before he faced the reigning WBC super featherweight champion Alexis Arguello in a non-title fight at Resorts International Hotel and Casino’s Superstar Theatre in Atlantic City on August 9, 1980. Arguello was considered one of the most powerful and dangerous punchers in the sport at the time and Cornelius gave the great fighter all he could handle before succumbing to the powerful blows of Arguello in the eighth round of the scheduled 10-rounder.

Although he lost, Boza-Edwards’ stock rose and after two wins he was matched with the WBC World Super Featherweight Champion Rafael “Bazooka” Limon at the Civic Auditorium in Stockton, CA, on March 8, 1981. On national TV, the viewing audience were treated to an exciting scrap as Boza-Edwards captured the title with a 15-round unanimous decision.

In his first defense of his laurels, Cornelius took on the talented former champion Bobby “Schoolboy” Chacon on May 30, 1981 at the Showboat Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV. Once again on network television, boxing shone brightly and the two sluggers traded leather at a torrid pace before Boza-Edwards stopped Chacon in the 13th round.

The strain of two straight wars had their effect on Boza-Edwards and he was KO’d in his next fight against the power punching Rolando Navarrete at the Stadio de Pini, in Viareggio, Toscana, Italy on August 29, 1981.

Chacon, 129 ¾, was the WBC super featherweight champion and Boza-Edwards was the #1-ranked contender. Bobby, however, recently signed a contract to fight Hector Camacho first. When Chacon backed out of the Camacho fight, the WBC stripped Chacon of the title.

Nevertheless, the fight was promoted as a “Championship Contest” and aired live on NBS Sportsworld. The Boza-Edwards-Chacon fight turned out to be one for the ages and an instant boxing classic. The two fought at a sizzling pace and Boza-Edwards was dropped in the second round. Cornelius rose and tore into Chacon with both fists blazing and opened up a cut over Bobby’s left eye.

Round 3 saw Boza-Edwards, 129 ¾, pound Chacon to the canvas and rip open another nasty cut over his foe’s right eye.

Chacon’s cuts inflicted by the fists of Boza-Edwards were so bad that action was halted in Rounds 7 and 8 to have Bobby’s wounds examined by ringside physician, Dr. Flip Holmansky.

Going into the twelfth and final round, Boza-Edwards was ahead on two of the three judges’ scorecards. The bloodied and swollen Chacon came out with the look of desperation and the two traded leather at a fierce pace before Chacon floored Boza-Edwards. Although he got to his feet and finished the fight punching away, the knockdown cost Cornelius the win as he lost by scores of 113-115, 112-115 and 111-117.

Although he lost, the fight was voted as 1983’s Fight of the Year.

Boza-Edwards would fight on and lost in two subsequent world title opportunities

Cornelius was outpointed over twelve rounds by WBC World Lightweight Champion Hector “Macho” Camacho on September 26, 1986 at the Abel Holtz Stadium in Miami Beach, FL.

In his last fight on October 10, 1987, Cornelius was KO’d in 5 rounds at the Zenith Palais, in Paris, France, against WBC World Lightweight king Jose Luis Ramirez.

Boza-Edwards recorded a terrific 45-7-1 (34 KO’s) record. He was one of the most thrilling and gutsy fighters of his generation and set the example of the type of great individuals who are inducted in the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame.

“Thank you Florida Boxing Hall of Fame! I am happy to be here and to see everyone here to give support for what we do,” remarked Boza-Edwards.

“Irish” Bobby Cassidy was born on April 19, 1944 in Levittown, New York. Bobby never had an amateur bout and instead jumped right into the professional ranks on March 19, 1962 with a KO win over Bobby Noble at Sunnyside Garden, in Queens, New York at the age of 19. In the course of his 18 year-career, Bobby fought middleweights and light heavyweights, beating such contenders as Christy Elliot, Jimmy Dupree, Tom Bethea, Don Fullmer, Tommy Hicks, Dennis Cochrane and Ramon Ranquello.

On May 11, 1979, Cassidy outpointed John Capobianco at the Long Island Arena in Commack, NY to capture the USA New York State Light Heavyweight Title.

Bobby retired in 1980 with a 59-16-3 (27 KO’s) record. Following his boxing career, trained WBC light heavyweight king Donny Lalonde and WBO middleweight champion Lonnie Bradley. Bobby also made an appearance in the classic “Rocky” film with Sylvester Stallone.

Steve “Lion Heart” Frank was a talented super middleweight who was born on April 15, 1966 in Guyana, but later moved to Brooklyn, NY. He was a leading middleweight challenger in the 1990’s and beat the likes of Joe Harris, Willie Driver, Rasheed Ali and Tracey Muse. Unfortunately, at the same time the IBF middleweight king was the legendary Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins. Frank got his title opportunity against Hopkins on January 27, 1996 at the Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix, Arizona, where he was TKO’d in the first round.

Frank wrapped up his career with two impressive wins over Dennis Murdock and Billy Durbin before retiring with a 17-4-1 (5 KO’s) ledger.

FBHOF President Butch Flansburg and Cornelius Boza-Edwards

“Wow, the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame!” exclaimed Frank. “If you ask any young boxer what his dreams or aspirations would like to be, most fighters would say, ‘I want to be a world champion.’ To be inducted into the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame is mind blowing! I am truly honored, humbled and ecstatic over my induction. I would like to congratulate my fellow inductees because I know all the hard work it took for us to be here. I would like to thank the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame, which found me worthy of such an honor.”

Lemuel Nelson was a ranked super featherweight and lightweight contender in the 1990s and 2000s. He was born on December 3, 1975 in Pensacola, Florida.

On January 9, 1999, Nelson outpointed Brian Adams at the Civic Center in Pensacola, FL, to capture the IBC Inter-Continental Lightweight Title. Lemuel defended his laurels against Gilberto Salinas, Louie Leija and Bernard Harris, and garnered victories in non-title bouts against Gary Richardson, Rosembler Palacios and Ariel Alberto Nistal before earning a shot at world title honors.

Nelson challenged WBO World Super Featherweight Champion Acelino Freitas on June 10, 2000 at the Fox Theater in Detroit, MI. Freitas was one of the most dominant super featherweight kings in history as his defense against Nelson would be his third and he would go on to defend his laurels 11 times, even later adding the WBA 130-pound belt to his collection. When he cleaned out the super featherweight division, Freitas would move up and capture the WBO Lightweight Championship.

Against Frietas, Nelson was overwhelmed and stopped in two rounds.

That was Nelson’s sole shot at world title honors as he retired in 2003 with a 25-8-1 (13 KO’s) record.

“I want to give thanks to the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame for taking the time to reward me with their confidence for the hard work I put forth in boxing,” said Nelson. “This has been a long time coming. It has been a blessing and I am glad to go down in history in the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame.”

Mark Lanton was born on March 28, 1966 in Haverstraw, New York. At the age of 11, Mark entered a boxing gym and began a storied amateur career. He continued to box after enlisting in the U.S. Army and became a 4-time Army European Welterweight Champion. In the 1980s, Mark was the winningest Armed Forces fighter, later becoming a 2-time All-Army and Armed Forces Light Heavyweight Champion. Lanton captured a gold medal at the Western Olympic Trials for the 1992 Barcelona, Spain Olympics.

After leaving the Army in 1992, Mark became a New York police officer and began serving in the Air Force Reserves.

In 1995 Lanton moved to Pensacola, Florida and joined the Roy Jones Jr. stable.

Mark’s first professional bout was on April 25, 1998, when he outpointed Cordell Parker at the Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, MS as a middleweight. Over the next two years, Lanton was a busy fighter, sporting a 10-2-1 (5 KO’s) record, before being called to active duty multiple times to serve in the Iraq War. Not only was a a brave fighter, he was a gallant soldier as Mark served as a Combat Medic where he was responsible for saving the lives of thousands of soldiers.

“Boxing kept me on the straight path,” said Lanton. “Boxing has always been faithful to me, but I was not always faithful to her. I played other sports like football and I wrestled in High School, so there were times I didn’t give boxing the attention she demanded. But when I returned to boxing, she welcomed me with open arms. I lost a lot of girlfriends when I chose boxing over them, and I am glad I did! Boxing convinced me to join the Army. I found a love affair with boxing for 41 years and it is still going strong and it will never end. I look forward to meeting Jack Johnson, Joe Louis and Sugar Ray Robinson in Heaven, so they could show me some of their moves. I want Muhammad Ali to show me some of his magic tricks, and I want Jake LaMotta to tell me some of his jokes. I thank God that I am part of the greatest sport on Earth and to be in the great family of boxing, and to top it off – to be a Florida Boxing Hall of Famer!”

Derrick “Smoke” Gainer was another Pensacola fighter who was born on August 22, 1972. He was good friends with Roy Jones Jr. and fought on many of the superstar’s shows.

Gainer, who turned professional in 1990, was such a rising contender that he earned a shot at Julian Flores’ IBO Featherweight Title on November 30, 1993 at the Civic Center in Pensacola, Florida. After twelve rounds, “Smoke” captured a unanimous decision and the championship.

Derrick never defended the title as he raked in wins over the likes of Harold Warren, Roberto Villareal and Javier Diaz. On June 15, 1996, Gainer was matched with former WBC Featherweight king, and current WBU Featherweight Champion Kevin Kelley at the Coliseum, in Jacksonville, Florida. In a savage battle, Gainer and Kelley traded forceful blows at each other as the fans went wild. Kelley sent Gainer crashing to the ring floor in Round 3. In the the fourth frame, Gainer dropped Kelley. Derrick was floored again in the fifth and eighth rounds before referee Frank Santore Jr. stopped the fight at 2:16 of Round 8.

Gainer subsequently went on a 7-bout winning streak before he faced Kevin Kelley in a non-title rematch on July 18, 1998 at New York’s Madison Square Garden. There was no stopping “Smoke” in this fight as he took the fight to Kelley and battered him mercilessly throughout the contest, depositing Kevin to the canvas in Rounds 1 and 7. After ten rounds, Gainer was the unanimous winner by tallies of 96-92, 96-94 and 96-93.

Two fights later, Gainer outpointed Harold Warren for the USBA Super Featherweight Title on January 9, 1999 at the Civic Center in Pensacola, Florida.

In his next bout, Derrick KO’d Donovan Carey to capture the interim WBA-NBA Super Featherweight Championship on June 5, 1999 at the Grand Casino in Biloxi, MS.

Five more wins followed before Derrick was matched with the fearsome Diego Corrales for the IBF and IBA World Super Featherweight Championships on March 18, 2000. Although the first two rounds were fought on even terms, the mighty fists of Corrales hammered Gainer twice to the canvas in Round 3 before referee Jay Nady stopped the fight.

Future Hall of Famers rarely quit and Gainer garnered two wins before facing WBA World Featherweight Champion Freddie Norwood at the New Orleans Arena, in New Orleans, LA on September 9, 2000.

Norwood failed to make the 126-pound weight limit as he tipped the scales at 129. Although he could not retain his title, Gainer, who weighed 125, still had the chance to win it. Sensing that this could be his last opportunity to become a world champion, Derrick came out swinging and set a fast pace – too fast for Norwood. Going into the 11th round, Gainer was ahead on all scorecards at 95-92, 96-91 and 96-92 when he came out like a terror and bombarded Norwood with leather bombs. Freddie was near helpless when referee Paul Sita halted the proceedings. After ten years, Derrick Gainer had become a world champion by a highly regarded boxing organization.

Derrick defended his laurels three times before facing the IBF Featherweight Champion Juan Manuel Marquez on November 1, 2003 at the Van Andel Arena, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Derrick was cut badly by an accidental head clash by Marquez and when the scores were announced, Gainer was on the losing end of a seventh-round technical decision.

After being away from for 17 months, Gainer returned to the ring to fight WBA Featherweight Champion Chris John at the Birama Arena, in Kelapa Gading, Jakarta, Indonesia on April 22, 2005. Even though Derrick dropped the champion in the opening frame, he wound up losing a 12-round unanimous decision.

Gainer went out a winner in his career as he won his next four fights and then retired in 2012 with a 43-7-1 (25 KO’s) record.

“I would like to thank the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame for this honor,” said Gainer. “It is hard what we do. I would like to thank Roy Jones Jr. for his support. I had only three amateur fights. I had great coaching and great sparring. There were so many guys that came into the gym that worked so hard. We pushed each other to the limit all to make us world champions. I want my kids to know that even if you lose, you can go back and work harder to win, like I did with Kevin Kelley.”

The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame is a wonderful institution that honors those who are a credit the great sport of pugilism. All inductees into the FBHOF have given their hearts and soul to boxing.

For any fan who wants to meet great fighters up close and personal, check you calenders to attend the 2019 Florida Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend!

KlowdTV to Air Live & Exclusively in the U.S.:Rakhimov v. Castellanos

The IBO Featherweight Title Bout between Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov and Robinson Castellanos to air Live and Exclusively on KlowdTV

Sunday, August 19th at 10:00 AM EST

LAS VEGAS, NV. – August 10th, 2018 – KlowdTV is proud to announce that it will stream the IBO Super Featherweight title bout between Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov and Robinson Castellanos on Sunday, August 19th at 10:00 AM EST / 7:00 AM PST.

“We are happy to give boxing fans this special event from Ekaterinburg, Russia,” said Robert Herring, Sr., CEO of KlowdTV. “We got an incredible response for the July 21st Cruiserweight world title fight, and all fans who subscribed to that fight, will be able to see this important bout featuring one of the best young fighters in the world in Rakhimov against a tough competitor in Castellanos, who has defeated many top names in the sport.”

Rakhimov of Ekaterinburg, Russia will be fighting in front of his hometown fans.

The 23-year-old Rakhimov is a three-year professional who already has great victories over Visita Gairabekov (1-0), Mirzhan Zhaxylykov (9-0), Rogelio Jun Doliguez (21-3-2), Jimmy Paypa (19-3-1), and Emanuel Lopez (27-6-1). In his last bout he won the IBO Super Featherweight title with an 8th round stoppage over former world champion Malcolm Klassen on February 10th.

Castellanos of Celaya, Mexico has a deceiving record of 24-13 with 14 knockouts.

The 36-year-old Castellanos is a 16-year professional, who started out slowly by only going 7-9 in his first 16 bouts. Since then he has gone 17-4 with big wins over Alejandro Sanabria (24-0-1), Christopher Perez (19-0), Alberto Garza (23-4-1), Aldimar Silva (12-1), Orlando Rizo (14-2), Miguel Angel Gonzalez (16-3-1), Omar Estrella (16-4-2), former world champion Celestino Caballero (36-4-2), former world title challenger Ronny Rios (22-0), former world title challenger Rocky Juarez, and former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa (26-1).

In his last bout, Castellanos competed for the WBA Super Featherweight title, but came up just short as he was on the wrong end of a controversial technical majority decision with Jezreel Corrales on July 15th.

There will be a full undercard featuring:

WBC INTERNATIONAL SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE

Mahmaddakhuja Yagubov (11-0, 7 KO) v. Victor Gonzalez (18-1, 9 KO)

INTERNATIONAL SUPER WELTERWEIGHT BOUT

Magomed Kurbanov (14-0, 11 KO) v. Charles Manyuchi (22-3, 13 KO)

CRUISERWEIGHT DEBUT

Evgeny Tischenko – 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist

KlowdTV is a 24/7 live streaming service that has over 32 live channels and 50 music channels.

To sign up visit www.klowdtv.com and choose the premium package option. The Rakhimov v. Castellanos bout is available on KlowdTV to United States viewers only. There will be no free trials available for live boxing events.

It seemed that Garcia was leading the action by landing combinations on the ropes. Crawley tried to keep the fight at the center of the ring by trying to lead with his left and flicking out the jab. Garcia dictated the action, but the judges did not see it that way as two of the voters saw the fight even at 76-76 and a 3rd judge had it 79-73 for Garcia.

Rasheen Brown looked sharp in his pro debut by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Bryann Perez in a super bantamweight bout.

Brown, 122.9 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 40-36 twice, and 39-37, and is now 1-0. Perez, 127.1 lbs from Dallas, TX is 2-11.

In a nice back and forth brawl, Nicoy Clarke won a majority decision over Jose Nunez in a heavyweight bout that was filled with action.

The fought hard on the inside throughout the bout, but Clarke landed the harder punches.

In round two, Nunez began to bleed from his nose.

Clarke, 209.4 lbs of Jersey City, NJ won by scores of 40-36, 39-37 and 38-38, and is now 2-1. Nunez, 216.2 lbs of Reading, PA was making his pro debut.

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August 4. Atlantic City, New Jersey. When Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev signed on to defend his title against the unbeaten #8-ranked WBO contender Eleider “Storm” Alvarez, it appeared that Kovalev, who has rebounded from his two losses to Andre Ward to capture the WBO light heavyweight and subsequently score two straight knockouts, would have no problems in handling Alvarez, who had not stopped an opponent in over three years.

Alvarez (L) and Kovalev (R) both trade leather at each other.

Not only did Kovalev enter the ring confident before a sold-out crowd of 5,642 at the Etess Arena, the oddsmakers tabbed him a 5 ½ to 1 favorite to successfully defend his laurels.

Kovalev (R) nails Alvarez (L) with a hard left.

The Alvarez-Kovalev battle is what makes boxing the great sport it is. Just when the fans see a pattern developing in a bout, one mighty punch throws the storyboard out the window. In this case it was an overhand right hand.

Billed as Krusher vs. Storm, the fight left the audience standing on their feet cheering as they just witnessed one of the most thrilling knockouts in recent years.

Kovalev (R) down for the second time in round seven.

Alvarez has spent the last five years trying to obtain a title opportunity. While he was put on the waiting list, he managed to score wins over top light heavyweights such as Jean Pascal, Lucian Bute, Issac Chilemba, Danny McIntosh, Isidro Prieto, Ryno Liebenberg, Alex Johnson and Andrew Gardiner.

Kovalev (L) looking for an opening.

The fight was exciting right from the outset as the former 2008 Olympian Alvarez, of Apartado, Colombia, but now residing in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, came out confidently firing fast jabs and quick combinations off the head of the stalking champion. Kovalev, of Kopeysk, Russia, but now taking up residence in Fort Lauderdale, FL, appeared unbothered by the challenger’s blows and marched forward jabbing and landing right hands and left hooks to Alvarez’s skull and ribs.

Alavarez (R land a terrific left hook to Kovelv’s jaw.

Due to the speed of Alvarez, the Colombian appeared to have an early edge in the first three rounds as he scored well and slipped many of the champion’s power shots.

The fourth round started on a bad note for Alvarez as referee David Fields warned him for a low blow. It would get worse as Kovalev stopped the challenger in his tracks with a vicious body assault. Alvarez, 34, was visibly shaken and soon was being blasted by a savage assualt of right hands, uppercuts and hooks. The champion kept up his attack as he began landing right hands in pairs off the challenger’s head. Although Alvarez held up from the pounding he was getting, he repeatedly was driven into the ropes and battered by the relentless Kovalev. It was a miracle that “Storm” actually was able to weather the storm of fists that rained upon him.

Surprisingly, Kovalev, 35, slowed down his attack in Round 5, which would proved later to be a fatal mistake on his part. Although he was pressing the action, Sergey was content to march forward and stab the challenger with jabs, and then scored well with his walloping left hook and right crosses. If he had fought with the same intensity as in the previous frame, Alvarez’s later comeback could have been derailed.

Apparently his corner noticed that their man had slowed his pace, because Kovalev came out more aggressive in the sixth round by driving Alvarez into the ropes and letting loose with a terrific two-fisted assault. The challenger’s swift shots enabled him to punch his way out of trouble.

Going into the fateful seventh frame, Kovalev was winning by margins of 58-56 on one judge’s scorecard and 59-55 on the other two officials’ tallies.

The referee stops the fight as Kovalev is down for the third time in round seven.

For the first two minutes, Kovalev appeared in control with his blistering punches. Alvarez’s cut on his left eye was bleeding and the padded mitts that found that target certainly did the challenger no good. The champion was confident as he jabbed and hooked with his left hand. He may, however, been too confident, or arm weary, for now his left hand was constantly hanging below his belt.

Throughout the bout, Alvarez was effective with landing his counter right hands shots over the jab of Kovalev, but now in the seventh round, the champion was giving his foe a better opening to his head.

Just as Kovalev (32-3-1, 28 KO’s) jabbed from his hip, Alvarez lashed out with an overhand right hand to the temple that sent the champion on the seat of his trunks on the ring floor!

Referee Fields reached “four” as Sergey made his way back to his feet. There was less than a minute to go, but still enough time for Alvarez, 174.4, to finish the job.

Kovalev was hurt, but still willing to wage war as he traded blows with the challenger. Alvarez kept his cool and looked for another opening. The search was a short one when a telling left hook suddenly sent the champion crumbling to the canvas for the second time in the bout!

As the fans on hand erupted in a frenzy, Kovalev once more got to his feet at “four” and as referee Fields continued his mandatory eight-count, he looked the champion over and decided to let the bout continue.

As soon as Fields released Kovalev, 174, and allowed the fight to resume, Alvarez instantly jumped on the hurt title holder with two crushing right hands that dropped the Russian again upon the canvas.

Kovalev receiving the standing eight count.

That was all referee David Fields had to see as he stopped the contest at 2:45 ouf Round 7.

It was the type of fantastic knockout that makes boxing better than any other sport in excitement and surprising, shocking moments.

“I knew if I was going to hit him [Kovalev] with my best punch and I knew that the effect of the blow was going to put him down,” said Alvarez (24-0, 10 KO’s). As for the finishing shots, Eleider explained, “It was a two-punch combo that I have been throwing my whole career and we worked on it in camp.”

Alvarez on his corner primed to begin round seven.

The new champion added, “It was my dream to be a world champion my whole life, so when my manager told me I had the chance to fight Kovalev, I said ‘yes’ without any hesitation. When I started to prepare for the fight, we went to the mountans of Bogota to train in the high altitude. We trained with teams from Brazil and Colombia and fought against all different types of boxers and styles. I did that because I figured that the fight against Kovalev would not go only one way, and that I would have to adapt during the fight. If the fight was inside, I was ready to fight inside, and if the fight was going to be fought from the outside, I was ready for that. All that together made me ready. I knew it was going to be tough fight and everyone saw a tough fight. Our game plan was working. After the sixth round, my trainer told me to go after Kovalev and fight inside. I wanted to show that I could stay strong and do things. Kovalev’s punches were not as hard as they were in the beginning of the fight.”

Regarding how he felt after knocking down the champion, Alvarez stated, “I figured I should knock Kovalev out now, because maybe he would be too tough after. I knew that he was hurt and I went for the kill.”

Kovalev, meanwhile, was taken to the hospital and was unable to attend the post-fight press conference.

The former champion’s promoter, Kathy Duva, told the media that although there is a rematch clause, it is too early to say when, or if, the return fight with Alvarez will take place.

Between the new Hard Rock Casino and Hotel, along with the upset win by Eleider Alvarez, boxing scored a knockout on this evening.

Bivol is still the reigning WBA light heavyweight champion of the world.

If Kovalev decides to hang up the gloves, then WBA light heavyweight king Dmitry Bivol, who successfully defended his title against Isaac Chilemba by a 12-round unanimous decision on the undercard, could be next in line for Alvarez.

Bivol (R) attacking Malawi, (R) .

Bivol, 174.6, of St. Petersburg, Russia, started off strong by jabbing away at Chilemba’s head and stomach and then nailing him with crackling left hooks. The challenger, was gutsy, but offered little offense in the early going.

Bivol (L) crashed a thudding left hook to Malawi’s jaw.

Chilemba, 175, of Blantrye, Malawi, came into the fight ranked #12 by the WBA and recently captured the vacant WBC International light heavyweight title by outpointing Blake Caparello on March 16 of this year. Apparently that win earned him a title opportunity, considering that he had lost 4 of his last 9 fights.

Trained by the legandary Roy Jones Jr., Chilemba made up for his lack of championship skills with guts and courage as he held off the power shots of Bivol and even scored well with his own combinations.

Bivol should have upped the pressure, but appeared content to be the aggressor and land enough blows to bank the rounds. One wondered if Roy Jones had switched outfits with his charge in between rounds, that he would have made a better showing.

Malawi (L) lands a hard body blow to Bovil (R)

After twelve rounds, two judges had the undefeated Bivol (14-0, 11 KO’s) pitching a shutout at 120-108, while one judge saw it closer at 116-112, all for Bivol.The win over Chilemba (25-6-2, 10 KO’s) was the second successful title defense of the laurels Bivol won by KO’ing Trent Broadhurst for the WBA belt on November 4, 2017. Going into this fight, Bivol had knocked out his last five opponents, so it was surprising that he was unable to finish off the challenger. Chilemba proved to be a sturdy opponent who was able to shake off the champion’s power punches and last out the fight on his feet.

“Chilemba is a good fighter and he had champion spirit tonight,” said Bivol after the contest.

August 4 – 2018 Promoter: Main Events

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ESPN and Top Rank Announce Historic Agreement

New Seven-Year Deal Runs Through 2025

Includes 54 Exclusive Live Top Rank on ESPN Events Per Year

August 4, 2018. ESPN and Top Rank, the world’s premier boxing promotional company, today announced the most comprehensive, exclusive rights agreement in the history of boxing. This new seven-year deal runs from 2018 to 2025 and includes 54 events per year, as well as a full offering of exclusive shoulder programming, classic fights and studio content.

Top Rank on ESPN content will air on ESPN linear networks or stream on ESPN+ — the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN.

This new agreement is the result of the huge success of the first year of Top Rank on ESPN. It will allow for a comprehensive alliance between Top Rank and ESPN’s leading networks and platforms to showcase even more Top Rank content, including live events, additional original programming and library content.

Highlights from the first year of Top Rank on ESPN include:

Manny Pacquiao vs. Jeff Horn (July 1, 2017) – The “Battle of Brisbane” had an average viewership of 3.1 million viewers and a peak of 4.4 million viewers, making it the highest-rated boxing telecast on cable since 2006 and ESPN’s highest-rated boxing telecast since 1995. Horn defeated Pacquiao by unanimous decision in a thrilling match.

Vasiliy Lomachenko vs. Guillermo Rigondeaux (Dec. 9, 2017) – Second most-watched cable boxing telecast of 2017, averaging 1.85 million viewers. It was the first boxing match in history to feature two two-time Olympic gold medalists.

Terence Crawford vs. Jeff Horn (June 9, 2018) and Manny Pacquiao vs. Lucas Matthysse (July 14, 2018) – Pound-for-pound elite Crawford won the WBO welterweight title over Horn in an event that drove subscriptions and was streamed live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+, ESPN’s new and innovative direct-to-consumer streaming service. The only eight-division champion in boxing history, Pacquiao headlined a second sensational fight on ESPN+, winning the WBA “regular” world welterweight title in a seventh-round TKO of Matthysse in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Vasiliy Lomachenko vs. Jorge Linares (May 12, 2018) – Thus far, it is the most-watched cable boxing broadcast of 2018. Lomachenko dethroned Linares to win the WBA lightweight title, becoming the fastest fighter to win world titles in three weight classes. Lomachenko accomplished that feat in 12 fights, breaking the previous record held by Jeff Fenech, who did it in 20 professional fights.

In the new deal, the 54 live events provide fans with a consistent boxing destination that showcases not only the finest of U.S. and international championship matchups, but also comprehensive coverage of up-and-coming prospects and contenders.

The exclusive live event breakdown per year is as follows:

– 18 events on ESPN

– 12 exclusive, prime time events on ESPN+

– 24 premium international events on ESPN+

– Undercard coverage of all 54 events on ESPN+

Subscribers to ESPN+ will also have access to a variety of new and existing boxing content throughout the year, including:

The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Tuesdays)

In this Corner (twice monthly)

Camp Life

The unmatched, on-demand treasure chest of the greatest fights of all time, including hundreds of fights from the ESPN Big Fights Library and the Top Rank archive, including Ali vs. Frazier I-III, Ali vs. Foreman, Leonard vs. Duran I-III, Hagler vs. Hearns and Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, among many more

Re-airs of all Top Rank on ESPN and Top Rank on ESPN PPV bouts

Weigh-ins, post-fight interviews, and press conferences

Boxing news, information, and opinion will also appear across ESPN platforms and new programs will be developed and announced at a later date.

Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN President and Co-Chairman, Disney Media Networks, said: ESPN is thrilled with this new long-term agreement with Top Rank, which represents the most innovative and comprehensive relationship in the world of boxing today. By creating and distributing significantly more Top Rank events and boxing content, ESPN and Top Rank will jointly cultivate upcoming fighters and fights, creating the stars of tomorrow while providing fans with the sport’s best content in a more personalized manner.”

Todd duBoef, President of Top Rank, said: “This partnership will continue to bring the biggest events and best fighters from around the world to ESPN networks. Our collective ability to integrate live events, classic fights, studio shows, and behind-the-scenes features will raise the long-term profile of the sport of boxing and the athletes.”

Added Kevin Mayer, Chairman, Direct-to-Consumer and International, The Walt Disney Company, “This expanded relationship with Top Rank increases the ability of ESPN+ to serve boxing fans better than ever and allows us to continue to build more direct relationships with this incredibly passionate audience.”

Launched in April, ESPN+ is an integrated part of a completely redesigned ESPN App. Already the leading sports app, the new ESPN App is the premier all-in-one digital sports platform for fans and highlights the company’s culture of innovation. With a richer, increasingly more personalized experience, the new ESPN App curates all of ESPN’s incredible content into an experience unique to each fan’s individual tastes. ESPN+ is also available through ESPN.com.

The deal with ESPN was brokered by Creative Artists Agency (CAA) on behalf of its client, Top Rank.